Kirk Franklin is standing by his decision to collaborate with GloRilla, despite criticism from some members of the Christian community. During an appearance on The Baller Alert Show, the gospel legend addressed the backlash surrounding their new music and explained why he believes people should stop trying to control someone else’s relationship with God.
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The conversation turned to GloRilla’s religious upbringing, her family’s church background, and how her faith continues to show up in her life and music.“That’s why you can’t monitor people’s journey,” Kirk said. “You can’t micromanage people’s process.”
Franklin also referenced a recent social media post in which GloRilla shared a spiritual message on her own. For the gospel star, her willingness to express her faith publicly speaks to why people should be careful about judging someone based solely on their musical career.
The collaboration sparked controversy after Franklin released “This Time” on September 25, 2026. The song features GloRilla delivering a faith-inspired verse over an energetic production that combines Franklin’s signature choir arrangements with hip hop influences.
Some listeners questioned whether a gospel artist should collaborate with a rapper whose mainstream catalog includes explicit music. Others welcomed the partnership as an opportunity to introduce gospel messages to audiences outside traditional church spaces.
However, GloRilla’s connection to Christianity began long before she became a successful rapper.
In a 2023 interview with ELLE, the Memphis native revealed that she grew up in a strict Christian household, regularly attended church, and participated in the choir and praise and worship team. Gospel artists including Yolanda Adams, Kirk Franklin, and Smokie Norful were frequently played in her home.
During a separate interview with the Recording Academy, GloRilla also identified Franklin as one of the gospel musicians she listened to growing up.
That history gives the GloRilla collaboration a personal connection beyond two artists from different genres recording together.
GloRilla recently shared her own perspective on the controversy during an October 15 appearance on Pastor Jamal Bryant’s “Let’s Be Clear” podcast.
The rapper acknowledged that she was surprised by the negative reaction to their first collaboration, “Rain Down on Me,” from her 2024 debut album, “Glorious.” By the time they recorded their second song together, she had already anticipated another round of criticism.
She also discussed how judgment within the church affected her personally. GloRilla recalled attending a service when she was younger and feeling singled out by a pastor who spoke about tattoos and piercings. She said the experience contributed to her decision to stop attending church in person, although she continues watching sermons online.
Her comments offer additional perspective on the song and Franklin’s argument about allowing people to navigate their faith without outside interference.
Franklin has faced similar criticism throughout his career.
According to Atlanta Black Star, Salt of Salt-N-Pepa recently recalled the backlash surrounding their 1997 collaboration “Stomp.” She explained that opposition became so intense that some radio stations removed her rap verse from the record.
Nearly three decades later, Franklin continues blending gospel with contemporary sounds.
His latest single will appear on his upcoming double album, “I Am What I Am,” scheduled for October 30. The project features 14 songs divided between contemporary and traditional gospel styles.
Meanwhile, Franklin and GloRilla’s earlier collaboration, “Rain Down on Me,” earned the Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award at the 2025 BET Awards.
