After more than 30 years of success, Kirk Franklin remains a trailblazer with Father's Day, as he continuously shapes the sound of Gospel for generations to come.
Kirk Franklin has etched a profound mark with his soul-stirring melodies and impactful lyrics, resonating with a global audience that has propelled his career to an astonishing two billion streams. As a beacon of inspiration in the gospel genre, Franklin's unwavering passion for Gospel music has earned him a distinguished collection of accolades, including 19 Grammy Awards, 42 Stellar Awards, 23 Dove Awards, and eight Soul Train Awards, solidifying his status as a superstar.
His latest album, Father's Day, is a testament to Franklin's versatility as an artist, boasting 10 tracks including the recent single "Needs," plus emotionally charged moments like "Try Love" and "All Things." Crafted and produced by Franklin himself, "Try Love" stands as a feel-good, mid-tempo anthem encouraging listeners to choose love and peace in the face of life's challenges, reflecting God's enduring love. The upbeat ode "All Things" serves as a reminder that with God, all things are possible, its accompanying video showcasing Franklin's random acts of kindness, inspiring viewers to believe that challenges can lead to greater good.
The album also features some notable guest appearances, including Le’Andria Johnson on “Unconditional,” Chandler Moore, Tori Kelly, and Jonathan McReynolds on “Again,” and Kelontae Gavin and Maranda Curtis on “Again & Again.” And Franklin's spirit extends beyond they music, evident in his deeper personal story shared in the Father’s Day documentary, which premiered in September on his YouTube channel.
Beyond the studio, Franklin has maintained a prolific schedule, co-headlining the Kingdom Tour with Maverick City Music in 2022, hosting the third Exodus Music and Arts Festival in May 2023, and co-hosting and co-executive producing the dating competition series, The One, alongside his wife Tammy Franklin for TV One. His multifaceted approach to music, television, and live performances underscores his commitment to keeping the Gospel message alive and relevant.
A 19-time Grammy Award winner, Franklin's influence extends far beyond the charts, with groundbreaking collaborations with artists such as Mariah Carey, Khalid, Lil’ Baby, Chance the Rapper, Kanye West, Justin Timberlake, Justin Bieber, Demi Lovato, Michael Jackson, and Wyclef Jean. Franklin's impact transcends music, with initiatives like Camp Lotus, a summer camp for aspiring artists, and support for non-profit organizations like Compassion International and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, showcasing his commitment to community development and the continued elevation of Gospel music to new heights and wider audiences.