“Thinking of You” is a heartfelt song by Lenny Kravitz, dedicated to his mother, Roxie Roker, who passed away from breast cancer at the age of 66. Released in 1998 as part of his fifth studio album, “5,” this song holds deep emotional significance for Kravitz.

Table of Contents

The lyrics of “Thinking of You” convey a sense of longing and reflection. The opening verse asks Kravitz’s mother if her life is better after her passing, questioning whether she would change anything if given the chance to come back. It reflects on the theme of regret and the desire to rearrange past decisions.

The chorus of the song repeats the phrase “Oh I’m thinking of you, And all the things that you wanted me to be,” emphasizing the enduring influence and impact of his mother’s aspirations for him. Kravitz expresses his ongoing attempt to live up to those expectations and be the person she envisioned him to be.

In the second verse, Kravitz wonders if the world has become more colorful and vibrant for his mother after death. He evokes images of joyous parades and eternal sunshine, suggesting a longing to believe that she is in a better place. The lyrics also express a plea for her to stop sleeping and weeping, indicating the pain and sorrow he feels in her absence.

The bridge of the song features Kravitz singing a poignant repetition of “Hey mama,” adding an intimate touch to the personal nature of the song. It serves as a heartfelt address directly to his mother, a way of reaching out to her and expressing his deep emotions.

The third verse of “Thinking of You” further explores the grief and longing after his mother’s passing. Kravitz questions whether the rumors he has heard are true and if she misses him as much as he misses her. He longs for a sign of her presence and hopes that she can hear his voice calling out to her.

Overall, “Thinking of You” is a powerful testament to the enduring love between a mother and a child. It captures the bittersweet essence of grief and the longing for connection with a lost loved one. Kravitz’s raw vocals and the melancholic guitar create a heartfelt atmosphere that resonates with listeners who have experienced similar loss.

Personally, this song holds a special place in my heart. Like Kravitz, I have experienced the profound loss of a loved one, and “Thinking of You” encapsulates the emotions and yearning that accompanies such an experience. When I listen to this song, it takes me back to moments of deep reflection and introspection, where memories of my loved one come rushing back. It serves as a reminder to cherish the moments we have with the people we care about and to never take them for granted.

“Thinking of You” is a beautiful tribute to Lenny Kravitz’s mother and a timeless exploration of grief, longing, and the enduring connection between a parent and child. Its emotional lyrics and heartfelt vocals make it a song that resonates with anyone who has experienced loss and understands the power of love.

Credits

Produced By Lenny Kravitz

Written By Lenny Kravitz & Lysa Trenier

Label Virgin Records

Copyright © Virgin Records

Phonographic Copyright ℗ Virgin Records

Publisher Miss Bessie Music, Venus Rising Music, International Music Network & BMG

Performance Rights ASCAP

Arranger Lenny Kravitz

Programmer Lenny Kravitz, Eric Rehl, Mark Browne, Matt Knobel & Terry Manning

Pro Tools Editor Matt Knobel

Recording Engineer Terry Manning & Tom Edmonds

Assistant Recording Engineer Keith Mannino, Mark Browne & Oswald Bowe

Mixing Engineer Lenny Kravitz & Terry Manning

Composer Lenny Kravitz & Lysa Trenier

Lyricist Lenny Kravitz

Background Vocals Lenny Kravitz

Percussion Lenny Kravitz & Craig Ross

Guitar Lenny Kravitz & Craig Ross

Drums Lenny Kravitz

Bass Lenny Kravitz

Fender Rhodes Lenny Kravitz

Rhythm Guitar Lenny Kravitz

Release Date July 6, 1998

Tags

R&B, Rock, Singer-Songwriter, Pop-Rock, Alternative Rock, Funk Rock, Alternative R&B