Kirk Franklin And GloRilla Are Joining Forces Again, For A Gospel Record Ahead Of Franklin’s First Double Album
Kirk Franklin and GloRilla are back together for another gospel collaboration.
The gospel icon released “This Time” featuring the Memphis rapper on Friday, Sept. 25, pairing Franklin’s signature choir-driven sound with GloRilla’s unmistakable delivery on a song centered on faith, perseverance and making it through difficult seasons.
The track arrives ahead of Franklin’s upcoming album, I Am What I Am, which is scheduled for release Oct. 30.
Franklin and his choir carry much of “This Time” before GloRilla enters near the end of the song with a verse reflecting on faith and gratitude.
The rapper refers to herself as a “prayer warrior” while also appearing to tease a possible title for her next album. GloRilla has previously confirmed that she is working on the follow-up to her debut album, Glorious, though an official title has not been announced.
“This Time” also draws from Mandrill’s 1972 song “Children of the Sun,” a record hip-hop listeners may recognize from its use on Shawty Lo’s 2007 hit “Dey Know.”
Franklin previewed the collaboration during an appearance on Fat Joe and Jadakiss’ “Joe & Jada” podcast before the song was later played on “The Breakfast Club.”
Franklin Preparing First Double Album
“This Time” will appear as the second song on Franklin’s upcoming 14-track project, I Am What I Am.
The album is Franklin’s first double album and is divided into two seven-song sections. One side leans into contemporary gospel, while the second features a more traditional gospel sound.
The project also includes “Thank You For Everything,” featuring Karen Clark Sheard.
“This Time” marks Franklin and GloRilla’s second collaboration.
Franklin and Maverick City Music previously joined GloRilla on “Rain Down on Me,” which appeared on her 2024 album Glorious. The collaboration later earned the trio the Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award at the 2025 BET Awards.
The reunion also continues Franklin’s longstanding practice of bringing gospel into conversation with hip-hop and contemporary Black music while giving GloRilla another opportunity to showcase the faith-centered side of her music.
I Am What I Am is scheduled to arrive Oct. 30.
