Lenny Kravitz Pursues Oscar Glory with Song from ‘Rustin’

Lenny Kravitz, known for his success in the rock music scene as a four-time Grammy winner, is now turning his ambitions towards the cinematic sphere, with hopes of securing a Best Song nomination at the Oscars for his contribution to the film 'Rustin.' The multi-talented artist expressed his eagerness to play a role in honoring the legacy of civil rights strategist Bayard Rustin through his music.

A Personal Connection to Civil Rights

During a recent Zoom press conference, Kravitz, at 59, opened up about his discovery of Bayard Rustin's story and its personal ramifications. Coming from a background where civil rights were a family focus—his father an NBC-TV producer and his mother an actress and activist—Kravitz felt a connection to the project. His mother, Roxie Roker, notably portrayed part of TV's first interracial couple on 'The Jeffersons.'

Rustin's Story Brought to Life

The subject of the biopic, portrayed by actor Colman Domingo, played a significant role in American history, working closely with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and shaping the 1965 March on Washington. Despite his pivotal contributions, Rustin's legacy was shadowed by discrimination due to his sexuality. The film directed by George C. Wolfe intends to correct that oversight.

The Making of 'Road to Freedom'

Kravitz's creative process for composing the film's theme song, 'Road to Freedom,' began with periods of introspection and patience. Once inspired, he collaborated closely with director Wolfe to ensure the song's lyrics and melody resonated with the story's message and the film’s overarching narrative. Kravitz described the layered and meticulous process as both challenging and fulfilling, a new experience compared to his previous work with film music. Ultimately, the song is meant to encapsulate the ongoing movement towards freedom, echoing the legacy left by figures like Rustin. 'Rustin' is available for viewers on the streaming platform Netflix, bringing this poignant tale and its accompanying soundtrack to audiences worldwide.

Grammy, Oscar, biopic