Kirk Franklin Previews New Double Album at Atlanta Listening Event

Gospel legend Kirk Franklin gave Atlanta fans an early listen to his upcoming album, "I AM WHAT I AM," during an exclusive playback event on Oct. 12 at Sessions Atlanta in Uptown Records. The gathering, presented by Fo Yo Soul Recordings, TRIBL Records and Uptown Records, previewed the project ahead of its Oct. 30 release. Franklin, a 20-time Grammy winner, described the album as his first double project, blending seven studio tracks with live church recordings. He spoke candidly about shifts in Black church music, his struggles with anxiety and depression, and the pressure of public scrutiny over his 33-year career, drawing comparisons to criticism faced by artists like GloRilla. Standout tracks played for the crowd included a Jelly Roll-assisted opener, a mental-health-focused collaboration with TobyMac called "It Gets Better," a high-energy COGIC-inspired song, and "Hope in You," an Afrobeats-tinged duet with Davido. Another track, "It Is Well" featuring Isaac Carree, was dedicated to a friend battling pancreatic cancer. During a Q&A, Franklin urged young artists to stay authentic rather than chase trends, calling creative compromise "a creative hell." The night ended with Franklin greeting fans and taking photos, capping an evening that mixed new music with personal reflection.