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Biography
The gospel star found success right from his 1993 debut, "Kirk Franklin & the Family," becoming the first gospel debut album to be certified Platinum. His album spent 100 weeks in the gospel and R&B charts, finding crossover success with his contemporary sound that incorporates R&B and hip hop elements. This was followed by another first, with "Kirk Franklin & the Family Christmas" becoming the genre's first number one Christmas album. Since these early breakthroughs, Franklin has continued to grow and grow as an artist, becoming one of the biggest stars in gospel music.
Raised by his aunt, Franklin began to develop his musical talents at a young age, taking piano lessons that his aunt afforded through collecting aluminium cans. He was a natural and soon began performing with the Mt. Rose Baptist Church choir. After a brief period of rebellion in his teens, Franklin dedicated himself to music and to his faith.
Backed by his 17-member choir, the Family, comprised of friends from his days spent in the church choir, Franklin has been composing and recording songs since 1991. His huge popularity was displayed following the release of his 1996 album, "Watcha Lookin' 4" which went Gold straight after it was distributed. His 1998 album, "Nu Nation Project," was greeted with wide critical acclaim, topping the Billboard 200 Chart, remaining on the Gospel Chart for 49 weeks.
Coming back in 2002 with "The Rebirth of Kirk Franklin" again topped the Gospel Albums chart and was certified Platinum. Franklin appears to be unable to do any wrong, releasing another four albums to huge success, topping the Gospel Albums Chart and Christian Albums Chart with every release. With seven Grammy Awards under his belt, he is undoubtedly a hugely respected artist. Yet Franklin remains humble and devoted to his faith, still labelling himself as 'just a church boy' as opposed to a superstar musician.
Live reviews
The phrase, ‘taking you to church’ couldn’t be more appropriate for Kirk Franklin. As a big gun in contemporary Gospel music, Franklin’s journey into the musical realm began at an early age. At the age of seven his innate musical talent was recognised and was offered a recording contract, but his aunt refused to accept the proposal. Franklin then joined the choir at Mt Rose Baptist Church where he remained and at the age of twelve became its musical director using his incredible talent in reading and writing music by ear. With his meandering journey through faith, several incidents led up to his dedication to pursue his passion for God through his musical expression full time.
There aren’t many musical directors like Kirk Franklin, his explosive energy not only feeds into his choir but enthuses the crowd so much so that there is barely a body sat down. Through the powerful exertion of faith and soul, the audience respond in whichever way they see fit as a wave of emotion washes over them. Whether its waving their handkerchiefs in air, jumping for joy, arms wide open, or swaying from side to side clutching onto their hearts, there is no doubt that the levels of personal interaction and genuine emotions fill the room providing an electric atmosphere guided through the angelic chorus of voices. The power of the word is the driving force of any performance as the choir are joined with a host of guest performers including renowned pastors and gospel artists. Franklin is a natural born leader, as he leaps for joy across the stage allowing the music to take control as he and the choir get carried away. One thing is for sure, everything is real- the emotion, the drive, the power, the energy and the love which radiates through the room touching the hearts and souls of all present.
EvieCriedWolf
Kirk Franklin has brought gospel music to the commercial music market, through his careful infusion of traditional gospel with hip hop and R&B. For fans of gospel and choir music, whether religious or not, Franklins music will certainly resonate loud and clear. Franklin’s crossover style allows his music to have wide appeal and for him to bring a modern twist to his performances, shifting his concerts away from the purely religious. Nonetheless, there is an undoubtedly religious aura that permeates his music, his stage presence and the crowd that sway with him. Not just through the lyrics, but because of the ethereal, angelic atmosphere created through his performances. Tracks such as ‘I Smile’ create an aura of pure joy and contentedness, without even invoking Christianity. Other songs are more overtly Christian: ‘Something About the Name Jesus’ being an obvious one. But the hints in the title. Franklin’s voice is heavenly and the emotion behind his vocals is only too real. The backing choir drive his vocals, adding power and passion to the performance and creating a community, church like atmosphere. When watching Franklin, you really are ‘taken to church’.
sabraziz
This show was AMAZING!!! Kirk is a true entertainer! He is so talented! This show made me speechless! This is by far the best concert that I have been too!I love how Kirk was very lively and interactive with his audience. Plus, I appreciated his realness and openness when he gave us words of wisdom throughout his show. Additionally, Koryn Hawthhorne and Travelle Judon was amazing as well.Kirk is anointed and a true blessing! His music makes me feel closer to God and gives me a better outlook on life. I will definitely attend many more Kirk Franklin concerts and will recommend others to attend a Kirk Franklin concert as well!
dejagirl134
Funny thing, was not much of a KF Fan until Saturday night's show. I went for Kem... however, I truly enjoyed Kirk beyond what I would have imagined. He was a professional superstar and not to uppity for his fans. I loved the attention he gave all of his fans, the Personal Attention. He reminded them (us), of how important we were to his career and success. I loved the kindness and absolute fun he displayed. I loved it all. Great job Kirk Franklin, I am now your newest fan!!! Bridgette Cooper, Philly!
bridgette-cooper-1
The Kirk Franklin show was phenomenal. Kirk is so Real that you couldn't help but to Feel the Spirit of the LORD IN THAT PLACE!!! That is if you know the LORD. Kurt sang everything from that's the reason why I sing too it's a new day he spoke to the women, he spoke to the men, he spoke to everyone that needed words of encouragement about the challenges that life throws at you, and to make it them. "I THOROUGHLY ENJOYED THE CONCERT FROM BEGINNING TO END!!!"
Channie03
I have never seen Kirk Franklin in person but would love to just not that Fortune to but I know his music help my soul I listen to him day and night I don’t know what I’ll do with out the sound of his voice and on the other hand I think God for him he just say all the right things to help me along the way Thanks Kirk you keep doing the work of God it’s a job well done in my book love you and can’t wait to see you
Sydell Jenkins
sydell-jenkins
The concert was EPIC...from beginning to end...full trottle...high impact...high energy...the band...the singers...the sound...the flow...the glory of God was certainly in the house...Kirk did not disappoint...well worth it...my family and I had a great time...it was the perfect kick off to our summer...I hope he comes back to the South AL / South MS area soon...
kenneth-b-brandon
It was absolutely Amazing. He put on a nonstop energetic show. He was so funny. He took some old school songs and made them into praise songs. He definitely got the audience motivated. We were singing, dancing, hugging people, laughing holding hands. Amazing. I would definitely go see him again. It was Outrageous. An Outstanding Performance....
bestdawkins
Awesome performance and excellent venue - well worth the ticket price. The VERY BEST gospel concert that I've ever seen. Oftentimes, these concerts can be more like "church" with excessive preaching and talking versus music entertainment. I'd do it again tomorrow or even on a Monday night. The show was super fantastic. Thank you, thank you!
JoyfulMe
AWESOME, PHENOMENAL,GREAT,FANTASTIC WONDERFUL......all of these adjectives combined still don't describe how much I enjoyed this concert. From Kirk, to the band, to the background singers, the entire atmosphere.... everything was awesome! Not my first Kirk Franklin concert and it definitely won't be my last!
madisynsmom1
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