Kirk Franklin On BET Ultimate Icon Award, Relationship With Music & God

Angie Martinez sits down with Kirk Franklin from the BET Awards in Los Angeles, where he was honored with the BET Ultimate Icon Award. The gospel musician discusses his thoughts on celebration and awards, and tells the story of being in bed when he won his first Grammy. Kirk also talks about why Christianity is hard for people to buy, leading into a deeper discussion on his own connection to God. Angie and Kirk also discuss rapper DMX, break down whether social media is evil, and share the impact God has on Kirk, his family, and his music. Angie asks some In Real Life questions that range from Kirk’s happiness on a scale from 1-10, to being a Christian that goes to therapy, and examining what is something he knew about God now that he didn’t when he was younger. 01:30 - Cold Open 02:11 - Introducing Kirk Franklin 02:47 - The story behind Kirk Franklin and green apples 03:47 - Kirk Franklin talks about his feelings towards the word “icon” 07:30 - Angie Martinez views “celebration” differently after being inducted in the Radio Hall of Fame 09:10 - Does Christianity need a rebrand? 11:41 - How is Kirk Franklin’s connection to God? 14:00 - Is there pressure to be perfect for Kirk Franklin? 16:35 - Is social media evil? 22:51 - Does your communication with God affect your connection? 26:11 - Sovereign will vs. human will 31:24 - How do you get to God coming from a tough space? 33:26 - Kirk Franklin talks fatherhood and marriage 38:23 - Kirk Franklin’s relationship with his music 41:53 - Are you always expected to be perfect as a Christian? 43:42 - What Kirk Franklin is most proud of in his career 45:00 - Kirk Franklin’s introduction to music 47:20 - Kirk Franklin’s first experience with true love 49:23 - Kirk Franklin answers a fan’s phone call 51:00 - How do you maintain a 30-year marriage? 55:30 - Kirk Franklin is a Christian that goes to therapy 59:00 - Are we concerned about the future of Christianity? 1:02:48 - How important is prayer? 1:04:30 - Kirk Franklin answers some In Real Life questions #Volume See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.