Treasured Moments In Black History: Kirk Franklin

Hope has a strange way of shining. It’s most evident in difficult times. This is Treasured Moments In Black History.

Kirk Franklin was born in Fort Worth, Texas to a teenage mother and father. Franklin was raised by his Great Aunt Gertrude.

It was his aunt that recognized and encouraged his musical gifts. She and Franklin recycled newspapers and cans to raise money for piano lessons. Franklin excelled quickly in music and was offered a record deal at the age of 7, but the offer was declined by his aunt due to his age.

Franklin joined the church choir and became the music director of the adult choir at the age of 11. Despite his strict upbringing, Franklin rebelled in his teenage years, and in an attempt to keep him out of trouble, his great aunt arranged an audition for him at a professional youth conservatory.

Franklin was accepted and eventually returned to the church and founded the group The Humble Hearts, which recorded an original song by Franklin. In 1992, Franklin formed The Family, a group of 17 singers that consisted of friends and associates in the community.

That same year, Franklin’s demo tape was heard by the president of Gospel Centric Records. She immediately signed Franklin and The Family to a record contract. Their first release was such a huge hit that it became the first Gospel record to sell more than a million copies.

Many attribute his success to a fervent passion to make Gospel music relevant to multiple generations. While he has suffered much criticism for this effort, Franklin has not compromised the message of Jesus Christ.

Treasured Moments in Black History is brought to you by Moody Publishers and their book Kingdom Race Theology by Dr. Tony Evans.

In every generation, God uses ordinary people to accomplish great things!
Treasured Moments in Black History by Moody Radio remembers the people and events in America that have shaped
history and inspired lives. By looking back and highlighting these moments, you will be inspired,
enriched and encouraged in your faith walk to make history for God’s kingdom.