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Gospel Legend Kirk Franklin Releases New CD, Hero

Kirk Franklin releases his sixth CD, Hero, in-stores on October 4! The gospel music innovator has, once again, raised the bar with this new album. Hero, the first release on Franklin's new Fo Yo Soul Entertainment label (in association with the newly formed Zomba Gospel) features a host of musical all-stars including musical genius Stevie Wonder, Yolanda Adams, Sheila E., Dorinda Clark-Cole, tobyMac, Tye Tribbett, J. Moss and P.O.D.’s Sonny Sandoval among others.

The multi-talented Franklin is not only keeping on the cutting edge of music, but cyberspace too. Visitors to his new website – www.kirkfranklin.us -- can keep up-to-date with Kirk’s blog, see the first two “Constructing Hero” episodes online, and join “The Takeover,” his online street team. Not only is Kirk's new single, "Looking For You," taking over radio airwaves across the country, but it is also impacting the internet and cell phones, as well. In addition to being available as a digital download at all major digital music websites, the song is also being offered as a mobile ringtone via Sony Music Box here. Fans will have the chance to chat with Kirk during a live interactive audio online chat on October 13 at 8:00 pm (EST) at GospelCity.com.

With the release of Hero, Franklin steps to the next level in his remarkable career and remains in the forefront of influencing future generations with his inspiring and timeless gospel message. In addition to the first single, “Looking For You,” a signature hype record -- featuring the classic Patrice Rushen sample “Looking For You”-- that Kirk’s fans have come to love and expect from him, the CD includes the title track, “Hero,” which chronicles the journey of mankind from destitution and depravity to redemption and restoration, and features guest vocals by one of the legendary Clark Sisters, Dorinda Clark-Cole. “Let It Go,” featuring guest vocals by tobyMac and Sonny Sandoval of P.O.D., is a haunting musical testimonial where Franklin tells of a past filled with sex, drugs, pornography, insecurity and growing up without a father. “Without You,” one of the most intimate moments on the CD, features a rare and deeply personal lead vocal from Franklin himself as he expresses his deepest sentiments of dependency on Christ. The one and only Stevie Wonder makes a featured guest appearance on the Motown-inspired song, ”Why,” a semi-tongue-in-cheek take on many of the social ills plaguing society, both inside and outside the church, that also features a scorching percussion by Sheila E. Several other tracks round out Hero including, ”Afterwhile,” featuring Yolanda Adams’ velvety vocals along with a gentle piano accompaniment delivering a message of assurance and encouragement that will undoubtedly resonate with all who hear it.

Franklin hopes his new CD reflects his growth from that first CD release over a decade ago to his current roles as husband, father, businessman, youth pastor and now, new record label CEO. In the summer of 1994, Kirk Franklin made musical history and forever altered the face of contemporary Gospel with the release of his debut album, Kirk Franklin and the Family, the first Gospel album to sell more than a million units. The Fort Worth, Texas musician went on to win 9 Dove, 33 Stellar and 3 Grammy Awards in the Gospel music field. After a decade on the charts, the biggest-selling Contemporary Gospel artist in Soundscan history is poised once again to make a resounding debut with the release of Hero and as an entrepreneur and head of his own entertainment venture: Fo Yo Soul Entertainment, Inc.

In October, Kirk will continue his travels in support of Hero, making appearances at radio and retailers across the country including stops in Chicago, Atlanta, Philadelphia and Washington, DC. Stay tuned to www.kirkfranklin.us for all the latest news and updates.

Provided by: Fo Yo Soul Entertainment