Kirk Franklin has released a new album and signed with Uptown Records, while his collaboration with Davido, 'Hope In You,' debuted on the Nigerian chart. His GloRilla collaboration 'This Time' became his record-extending 10th No. 1 on Hot Gospel Songs, and he has publicly defended GloRilla amid criticism of the pairing. In interviews, Franklin has also reflected on his estranged biological father, his mother's refusal to acknowledge his father's identity, Kanye West's offer to produce gospel music, and Michael Jackson's influence.