Can gospel music and mainstream rap share the same space? That question is getting attention after Grammy-winning gospel artist Tye Tribbett shared his thoughts about Kirk Franklin’s decision to collaborate with rapper GloRilla.
During an appearance on The Breakfast Club, Tribbett discussed the growing number of gospel musicians working with secular artists. While he made it clear that he respects Franklin and appreciates his impact on gospel music, he questioned whether the collaboration with GloRilla was necessary.
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Tribbett suggested Franklin had other options when it came to choosing artists for his music, raising questions about why he decided to work with someone whose mainstream catalog includes explicit lyrics.
His comments have reignited a conversation that has followed gospel music for years. Some listeners believe gospel artists should be careful about the company they keep and the messages associated with their music. Others see collaborations as an opportunity to reach people who may not typically listen to gospel.
GloRilla has also entered the conversation, although she did not directly address Tribbett by name. The rapper shared a message on X referencing Psalm 150:6, which states, “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.”
She explained that she plans to continue giving God glory as long as she is breathing, regardless of criticism. Her post came as the discussion surrounding her gospel collaborations continued gaining attention online.
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This isn’t the first time GloRilla and Franklin have worked together. Their previous collaboration, “Rain Down on Me,” earned the Best Gospel/Inspirational Award at the 2025 BET Awards.
The pair released another song, “This Time,” in September, and the track went on to reach No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Gospel Songs chart.
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Franklin has also defended his willingness to work with artists outside the gospel genre. He has expressed the belief that everyone should have an opportunity to share their faith, suggesting that musical background shouldn’t automatically determine who can participate in a gospel project.
Still, Tribbett’s remarks highlight a difference in perspective among artists and listeners about what gospel music should represent. For some, maintaining a distinction between gospel and secular music is important. For others, collaborations create opportunities to spread a message beyond traditional church audiences.
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With gospel artists continuing to cross musical boundaries, the debate isn’t likely to disappear anytime soon.
So, should gospel musicians collaborate with secular artists like GloRilla, or should the genres remain separate?
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