(Photos) Lenny Kravitz Reveals His Childhood Home: A Cozy One-Bedroom Apartment on New York’s Upper East Side

Lenny Kravitz Offers a Heartfelt Tour of His Childhood Home on New York’s Upper East Side

Grammy-winning musician Lenny Kravitz recently shared an intimate glimpse into his childhood, taking fans on a virtual tour of the Manhattan neighborhood that shaped him during his early years. On September 16, Kravitz, now 60, posted a video to his Instagram, where he gave a heartfelt tour of his childhood home located on East 82nd Street, in the heart of New York City’s Upper East Side.

The short video not only showcased the one-bedroom apartment where he lived with his famous parents—actress Roxie Roker and television producer Sy Kravitz—but also highlighted some of the most significant landmarks in his early life. It was a touching tribute to the neighborhood that played such a key role in shaping who he is today, both as a person and as a musician.

A Humble Beginning on East 82nd Street

In the video, Kravitz begins by showing off the Gothic-style exterior of his childhood building. “East 82nd Street, where I grew up on the Upper East Side,” he says, pointing to the third-floor apartment he once called home. Despite the family’s one-bedroom space, his parents sacrificed their comfort to give Kravitz his own room. “My parents gave me the bedroom, and they slept on a couch in the living room,” he reminisced.

Even though the apartment was modest, Kravitz holds fond memories of those years. He describes the warmth and love that filled their home, despite the physical constraints of living in a small space.

A Cultural Neighborhood

One of the advantages of living in this Upper East Side neighborhood, Kravitz points out, was the proximity to the iconic Metropolitan Museum of Art. “The Met wasn’t far, and that was my backyard,” he recalls, with a camera shot panning toward the world-renowned museum. As a young boy, Kravitz was often exposed to the art and culture the museum offered, and it clearly left a lasting impression on him.

Joe Namath’ home

New York City was, and still is, a vibrant hub of creativity and artistic expression, which Kravitz feels privileged to have experienced during his formative years. “One of the beautiful things about living in this neighborhood,” he added, “was how close I was to such significant cultural landmarks.”

Famous Neighbors and Memories

The tour didn’t just stop at his childhood apartment. Kravitz went on to share details of some of the famous people who lived in the neighborhood. “This building right here, 3 East 82nd St., is where Joe Namath lived,” he said, pointing to a nearby building. The former New York Jets quarterback was often seen through the windows hosting parties, a sight that left an impression on a young Kravitz.

As Kravitz walked further, he also passed a local diner that he and his parents frequented during his childhood. He nostalgically pointed out the exact spot at the diner, once known as the Copper Lantern, where he tied his shoelaces for the first time. It was a seemingly small memory, but it carried deep personal significance for the musician.

He also highlighted his old elementary school, the famous PS6, located directly across the street from his apartment. It was a school that nurtured his early years, providing both academic education and the foundational social experiences that come with growing up in New York City.

A Personal Reflection on His Upbringing

In the closing moments of the video, Kravitz reflected on his upbringing and what it meant to him to grow up in such a vibrant city. “Just wanted to show you where I came from,” he said, before concluding the video. It was clear that the neighborhood had a profound impact on his life, influencing not only his personality but also his music.

Kravitz has always been open about how his upbringing in New York City played a critical role in shaping him into the artist he is today. In a May interview with CBS Mornings, he explained how his childhood experiences, especially his time at the Harlem School of the Arts’ after-school program, shaped his most recent album, Blue Electric Light.

Formerly called ‘The Copper Lantern

“I grew up being a New York kid. I took the subway at a young age – walking with your friends, taking cabs, you know? My mom taught me to be independent,” he said during the interview. Growing up in the city gave him a unique perspective on life and instilled in him a sense of independence and self-reliance.

The Influence of New York City on His Music

Kravitz’s love for New York is deeply embedded in his music. His experiences in the city are reflected in his lyrics and melodies, often blending a sense of nostalgia with the vibrancy of his youth. The city’s energy and diversity clearly influenced his sound, contributing to the eclectic mix of rock, soul, funk, and blues that has become his signature style.

Reflecting on his journey from the small apartment on the Upper East Side to international fame, Kravitz expressed nothing but gratitude. “All I can do is really just feel how blessed I am,” he said. “That, and how beautiful the journey has been.”

PS6

Kravitz’s candid tour of his childhood neighborhood is a reminder of how influential our roots can be in shaping who we become. From his parents’ sacrifice to his exposure to the arts and culture of New York, Kravitz’s early years are a testament to how a strong foundation can fuel future success.

A Connection That Endures

For fans of Lenny Kravitz, this tour offers a rare opportunity to see the world through his eyes—through the lens of his formative years in Manhattan. It’s a glimpse into the humble beginnings of a global star, and how the city he grew up in continues to inspire him, decades later.

From the Gothic-style apartment building to the familiar sights of neighborhood landmarks, Kravitz’s connection to New York is undeniable. As he continues to evolve as an artist, the influence of his upbringing remains ever-present in his music, ensuring that the spirit of East 82nd Street lives on in every note.