Kravitz did not grow up in a strongly religious environment. However, at the age of 13, he experienced a spiritual awakening and embraced Christianity, marking the beginning of his enduring faith.

Musical Roots and Early Influences

Music was an integral part of Kravitz's upbringing. As a young child, he often turned household items like pots and pans into makeshift drums. By age five, he had already declared his desire to become a musician. The Kravitz household celebrated a wide array of genres, including jazz, classical, R&B, and blues. His parents supported his musical interests by taking him to live performances, among them shows by the Jackson 5.

Sy Kravitz’s connections in the jazz world introduced young Lenny to legendary artists such as Sarah Vaughan, Miles Davis, and Count Basie. Duke Ellington famously sang "Happy Birthday" to him when he was just one year old. His mother, Roxie, was instrumental in encouraging him to pursue a professional music career.

Early Training and Artistic Development

In 1974, Kravitz joined the California Boys Choir, where he performed at venues such as the Metropolitan Opera and the Hollywood Bowl. While living in Los Angeles, he was exposed to rock music, developing an appreciation for acts like Aerosmith, Led Zeppelin, and Black Sabbath. He would later cite Bob Marley as an influential figure in his songwriting approach, blending rock with funk, soul, and reggae.

During his teenage years, Kravitz attended Beverly Hills High School’s music program, where some of his classmates included Slash, Nicolas Cage, and Maria McKee. This period played a significant role in shaping his diverse musical style.