Twenty-time GRAMMY® Award winner Kirk Franklin is bringing gospel and hip-hop together once again, teaming up with multiplatinum Memphis rapper GloRilla for his new single “This Time,” available now via Uptown Records.
The collaboration arrives ahead of Franklin’s highly anticipated 14th solo studio album, I Am What I Am, which is set for release October 30.
“This Time” immediately establishes an energetic groove, opening with joyous horns that interpolate Mandrill’s “Children of the Sun” before handclaps lock in the rhythm. Franklin drives the track with his signature energy, building toward a powerful, chant-ready chorus rooted in soul and gospel.
GloRilla brings that same energy from the hip-hop side, delivering upbeat verses packed with her trademark wordplay and personality. The collaboration also highlights another dimension of the Memphis rapper’s artistry, showcasing her versatility as she moves comfortably within Franklin’s gospel-driven production.
The single follows Franklin’s previously released “Thank You For Everything,” featuring gospel icon Karen Clark Sheard of The Clark Sisters. The song has quickly gained momentum at Gospel radio and became the fastest-growing record at the format.
Franklin also performed “Thank You For Everything” during the 41st Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards, marking the song’s live television debut. The accompanying music video made its broadcast premiere on BET Her.
With “This Time,” Franklin continues to build anticipation for I Am What I Am while bringing together two distinct voices from gospel and hip-hop. The collaboration further reflects his ability to connect different corners of contemporary music without losing the foundation that has defined his career.
The upcoming album marks another chapter in a career that has established Franklin as one of the most influential figures in contemporary gospel music, while his latest collaboration with GloRilla introduces his sound to an even broader audience.
“This Time” is available now, with I Am What I Am arriving October 30.
