Source: Marcus Ingram / Getty
Kirk Franklin recently reflected on the controversy surrounding his 2024 performance in Jamaica, which sparked conversations about his choice of attire and dance moves. In a YouTube video, the 54-year-old gospel artist took the time to address the situation, offering an apology for those who were offended by his appearance and actions.
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The artist explained that his outfit—comprising a grey tank top and white shorts—was chosen with the intention of staying comfortable outdoors. “I am aware now that my choice of attire, which as a team we thought was going to be fine being outside in the weather, was going to be something that would not come across as disrespectful,” he said. He added that after spending most of his career dancing on stage, he never expected to offend anyone. “I’ve spent most of my career dancing and moving around and jumping on stage that, I didn’t know that I would ever do anything that would ever offend anyone in any community, but it did. And because it did, I sincerely apologize.”
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Franklin further emphasized his commitment to learning from his experiences: “I sincerely apologize because I never want to get to a place that I can’t learn,” he stated. He also acknowledged that while his intentions were good, he understands the importance of aligning his actions with the message he shares: “It doesn’t matter what my goal and intent is, if I’m louder than the message of Jesus, then I failed.”
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In the same video, titled “Thank you for a beautiful 24,” Franklin also discussed his collaboration with Memphis rapper GloRilla on the song “RAIN DOWN ON ME.” He shared insights into his approach to collaborating with artists outside the gospel genre, emphasizing the importance of staying true to his message. “When we’re invited into their world, it’s very important that we don’t have to compromise our messaging,” Franklin explained. “We’ve gotta be able to do life with people so that they can get the residue of the message that we’re trying to share.”
He concluded by reiterating his mission to bring the church beyond its walls, making sure it exists in the world, not just within the confines of a building.
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