Lenny Kravitz has distanced himself from reports he is set to join Aerosmith as a replacement for singer Steven Tyler.

Kravitz had been linked to the role amid ongoing speculation about Tyler's future with the group.

However, in a message on his Twitter page, Kravitz said his friendship with Tyler prevented him from ever taking the singer's place.

“As much as I am flattered that Aerosmith's camp would consider me to front the band, Steven Tyler is a family friend, and no voice could ever take the place of his,” he wrote.

“I hope the band stays together. They are classic.”

Tyler's position has been in doubt ever since the frontman broke his shoulder after falling off stage in August, prompting the cancellation of Aerosmith's US tour.

In November, guitarist Joe Perry was quoted as saying the singer had quit the group.

(by Jason Gregory)