Bundle Drum Sheet & Video – Lenny Kravitz – It Ain’t Over ’til It’s Over

“It Ain’t Over ’til It’s Over” is a warm, velvety slice of retro soul that marked a defining moment in Lenny Kravitz’s career. Released in 1991 on his second album Mama Said, the song pays tribute to the golden era of soul and R\&B while offering something intensely personal and emotionally rich. It became one of Kravitz’s biggest hits, thanks to its irresistible groove, heartfelt lyrics, and impeccable musicianship.

At its core, the song is a plea—a soft, confessional love letter born from real-life heartbreak. Kravitz wrote it during the unraveling of his marriage to actress Lisa Bonet, and you can hear the vulnerability in every note. The lyrics are simple but direct, expressing the ache of trying to hold onto a relationship that’s slipping away. There’s melancholy here, but also tenderness and hope.

What truly elevates the track is the musical arrangement. Kravitz channels his love of Curtis Mayfield, Marvin Gaye, and Al Green, blending smooth strings, mellow horns, and warm electric piano textures. Remarkably, he played nearly all of the instruments himself, showcasing not just his talent but his deep respect for the soul music that shaped him.

And for drummers, the groove is the soul of the track. The drums are laid-back, played in the pocket with the kind of behind-the-beat feel that gives classic soul its sway. There’s no rush—just a slow, steady pulse that leaves space for the horns to breathe and the vocals to shine. Ghost notes on the snare add subtle texture, and the hi-hats are soft, crisp, and metronomically human. It’s a masterclass in restraint: there’s nothing flashy, yet every detail is purposeful.

Live, the song becomes even more expansive. Kravitz often lets the rhythm section stretch out, with funkier bass lines or extended horn solos, but the core groove always remains. Whether in arenas or stripped-down acoustic sets, “It Ain’t Over…” delivers a feeling that audiences connect with immediately.

In essence, this song isn’t just about heartbreak—it’s about feel. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most powerful musical statements are made with soul, patience, and perfectly placed rhythm.