Lenny Kravitz: His Time Has Come

Powerful Vibe Always Shines

By Chris Carney

If you follow the theory that actions speak louder than words then Lenny Kravitz is a giant among men. He has achieved many of the hallmarks of success, including four consecutive Grammy Awards from 1998-2001 and the most coveted bit of resume bling around, a guest spot on The Simpsons.
 

His music, like his life, is a fusion of multiple styles, influences and interests. A self-confessed retro artist, Kravitz's music mixes elements of rock, funk, soul, psychedelia and folk in a style that is truly his own.
 

Kravitz is a multiple instrument master, playing nearly all the guitar, bass, drums, keyboards and percussion on his albums. He's written for Madonna, produced for Cree Summer and Vanessa Paradis and sat shotgun alongside Mick Jagger, Steven Tyler and Stevie Wonder.
 

But it is onstage where his power, energy and charisma really shine. His live shows feel exactly like the crazy hair-twirling raucousness of his videos, complete with ear-shredding guitar licks, deeply guttural vocals and blazing lights sure to cause spots for days.

Published in LasVegas Magazine 1-13-08

Americn Idol Live: Not Pitchy At All

Contestants are all winners in celebratory tour

By Chris Carney

Not content with dominating the digital domain within your television, the marketing gurus behind the juggernaut Fox hit American Idol are sending their young ingénues on a massive summer tour. Featuring all of the top 10 finalists, including winner David Cook and runner-up David Archuleta, this year's tour takes the postseason road trip to even higher levels.

This year's tour, American Idols Live! 2008, features a whopping 53 shows in just over three months and will continue some of the innovations integrated into this past season, including instrumental performances by some of the contestants. Like previous tours, the 2008 version will feature many of the songs that helped the final 10 secure their place in Idol lore, along with new combinations and new songs. Without the tense environment of competition, the Idols will be free to enjoy themselves, and the camaraderie it engenders will shine through.

Who will shine? Who will go on to further fame and fortune? Who will go on to careers beyond American Idol? All these questions will be answered this summer.

No word yet on whether Simon Cowell and his cronies will hog the best seats and continue their harsh, energetic commentaries.

Originally Published in Las Vegas Magazine 06-29-08