Kirk Franklin
- Born on January 26, 1970, in Fort Worth, Texas, Franklin was raised by his aunt, Gertrude, after being abandoned by his mother.
- He began playing the piano at age four, with his aunt recycling aluminum cans to fund his lessons. By age 11, he was leading the Mt. Rose Baptist Church adult choir.
- In 1993, Franklin released his debut album, Kirk Franklin & The Family, which became the first gospel debut album to go platinum, spending 100 weeks on the gospel charts.
- Franklin is known for blending gospel with R&B, hip-hop, and pop influences, revolutionizing the genre and earning him the title “Reigning King of Urban Gospel.”
- He has won 20 Grammy Awards, 22 GMA Dove Awards, and numerous other accolades, making him one of the most decorated gospel artists.
- Franklin has worked with various artists, including Kanye West, contributing to the song “Ultralight Beam” and performing it on “Saturday Night Live.”
- He married Tammy Collins in 1996, and together they have four children. Franklin has been open about overcoming a decade-long pornography addiction and reconciling with his estranged father in 2023.
- Beyond music, Franklin is dedicated to mentoring young artists and engaging in philanthropic efforts to uplift communities.