Description
Lenny Kravitz – Mama Said – Double Vinyl Record
Lenny Kravitz’s Mama Said, released on April 2, 1991, is the artist’s sophomore album and a deeply personal exploration of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. Coming off the success of his debut, Let Love Rule (1989), Kravitz expanded his sound with Mama Said, blending funk, rock, soul, and psychedelia into a cohesive and emotionally charged record. The album reflects his artistic growth while addressing the pain of his highly publicized breakup with actress Lisa Bonet and his journey toward healing.
Featuring iconic tracks like It Ain’t Over ’Til It’s Over and Always on the Run, Mama Said captures Kravitz at a pivotal moment, balancing raw emotion with masterful musicianship. The album received critical acclaim and commercial success, peaking at No. 39 on the Billboard 200 and achieving multi-platinum status worldwide.
Following the release of Let Love Rule, Lenny Kravitz emerged as a fresh and unique voice in the late 1980s music scene. His debut album’s retro-inspired sound and socially conscious lyrics stood out amidst the era’s glossy pop and hair metal. However, the personal turmoil surrounding his split from Lisa Bonet—combined with his growing fame—set the stage for a more introspective and emotionally raw follow-up.
Recorded primarily in Los Angeles, New York, and Paris, Mama Said features Kravitz not only as the primary songwriter but also as a multi-instrumentalist, playing guitar, bass, keyboards, and drums on many tracks. The album also includes notable collaborations, such as Slash of Guns N’ Roses on Always on the Run, which added a rock edge to Kravitz’s already eclectic sound.
Musically, Mama Said expands upon the retro influences of Let Love Rule, drawing inspiration from 1970s funk, soul, and rock while incorporating a more polished production style. The album’s sound is characterized by lush string arrangements, groovy basslines, soulful horns, and Kravitz’s distinctive vocal delivery. His seamless blending of genres gives the record a timeless quality, paying homage to the greats of the past while carving out his own space in the music world.
The production is intimate and warm, often reflecting the raw emotions of the lyrics. The balance between upbeat funk-rock tracks and tender ballads creates a dynamic listening experience that mirrors Kravitz’s personal journey.
Track Highlights
Fields of Joy
Opening the album with a dreamy and soulful vibe, this track blends psychedelic rock with uplifting lyrics. Its rich instrumentation, including soaring guitars and orchestral flourishes, sets the tone for the album’s introspective themes.
Always on the Run (featuring Slash)
A funky, hard-hitting anthem with a killer riff by Slash, this track is a celebration of independence and defiance. The song’s tight rhythm and electrifying guitar work make it one of the album’s standout moments.
Stand by My Woman
A heartfelt ballad that reflects Kravitz’s vulnerability and longing, this song features tender lyrics and a soulful arrangement. Its simplicity and sincerity make it deeply resonant.
It Ain’t Over ’Til It’s Over
A timeless, Motown-inspired hit, this track became one of Kravitz’s most iconic songs. With its lush strings, smooth bassline, and soulful vocals, the song captures the pain of a fading relationship while maintaining a sense of hope.
More Than Anything in This World
A stripped-down and emotional ballad, this track highlights Kravitz’s introspective side. Its minimalist arrangement and heartfelt lyrics make it one of the album’s most intimate moments.
What Goes Around Comes Around
This funk-infused track is a groovy meditation on karma and accountability. Its infectious rhythm and catchy melody add a lighter, more playful touch to the album.
The Difference Is Why
A contemplative, mid-tempo track with a reflective tone, this song explores themes of love and reconciliation. The combination of acoustic and electric instrumentation creates a rich sonic texture.
Stop Draggin’ Around
A raw and gritty rocker, this track channels Kravitz’s punk and garage rock influences. Its driving rhythm and rebellious energy add a sense of urgency to the album.
Flowers for Zoë
A tender and dreamy acoustic piece dedicated to Kravitz’s daughter, Zoë Kravitz. Its delicate arrangement and heartfelt lyrics capture a sense of innocence and love.
All I Ever Wanted (featuring Sean Lennon)
A lush, melodic track that features Sean Lennon’s harmonies, this song blends a Beatles-inspired sound with Kravitz’s soulful delivery. Its introspective lyrics add depth to the album’s narrative.
When the Morning Turns to Night
A soulful, groove-heavy track with a nostalgic vibe, this song showcases Kravitz’s knack for blending funk and rock seamlessly.
Butterfly
A short, acoustic interlude, Butterfly is a poetic reflection on love and freedom. Its simplicity highlights the emotional weight of the album.
What the … Are We Saying?
A deeply introspective track that delves into themes of self-doubt and existential questioning. Its moody arrangement and haunting vocals make it a standout moment.
Fields of Joy (Reprise)
Closing the album, this reprise revisits the opener with a more stripped-down arrangement, bringing the journey full circle.
Mama Said is a deeply personal album, reflecting themes of heartbreak, longing, self-discovery, and resilience. The lyrics often read like journal entries, with Kravitz baring his soul and exploring the complexities of love and relationships. Songs like Stand by My Woman and It Ain’t Over ’Til It’s Over capture the pain and hope of a fractured romance, while tracks like Always on the Run and What Goes Around Comes Around emphasize independence and accountability.
The album also celebrates familial and parental love, as heard in Flowers for Zoë, while delving into broader existential themes in tracks like ‘What the … Are We Saying?’
Upon its release, Mama Said was met with critical acclaim, with reviewers praising its emotional depth, genre-blending sound, and Kravitz’s growth as an artist. The album produced several successful singles, with It Ain’t Over ’Til It’s Over reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, solidifying Kravitz’s status as a mainstream artist.
Commercially, Mama Said was a success, achieving multi-platinum status and expanding Kravitz’s global fanbase. The album is often cited as a pivotal moment in his career, showcasing his ability to balance personal vulnerability with confident musicianship.
Mama Said solidified Lenny Kravitz’s position as a genre-defying artist who could appeal to both mainstream and alternative audiences. Its fusion of vintage influences with modern sensibilities set a template for future artists blending rock, soul, and funk. Tracks like It Ain’t Over ’Til It’s Over and Always on the Run remain enduring classics, influencing a new generation of musicians.
The album also established Kravitz as a style icon, with his retro-inspired image becoming as much a part of his identity as his music. Its themes of heartbreak and resilience resonated widely, making Mama Said a relatable and timeless work.
Mama Said is a masterful blend of raw emotion, timeless melodies, and genre-blurring innovation. Lenny Kravitz’s sophomore effort captures the pain and beauty of love and personal growth, showcasing his evolution as both a musician and a storyteller. With its standout tracks, introspective themes, and enduring appeal, Mama Said remains one of the defining works of Kravitz’s career and a landmark album in the fusion of rock, soul, and funk.
Issued on 180 gram black vinyl, housed in gatefold jacket with full printed paper inner sleeves
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic sealed
Track Listing
Fields Of Joy
Always On The Run
Stand By My Woman
It Ain’t Over ‘Til It’s Over
More Than Anything In This World
What Goes Around Comes Around
The Difference Is Why
Stop Draggin’ Around
Flowers For Zoë
Fields Of Joy (Reprise)
All I Ever Wanted
When The Morning Turns To Night
What The …. Are We Saying?
Butterfly
