Music Review: Kirk Franklin K.O.'s in the Fight of My Life - Page 2

Part of: The NUBIANO Exchange

Another one of Kirk's experimentation, "Chains," is a jazz production with lead vocals provided by Melonie Daniels, Nikki Ross, and Sheri Jones-Moffett that is reminiscent of Donnie McClurkin's "Great is Thy Mercy." The first movement makes the following testimony: "Chains / That try to bind me / Chains / That won't let me go / Chains / They keep me from trying / Chains / Please loose your stronghold / Chains / Though I try to surrender / Chains / Yet and still, I remember / Who the Son sets free is truly free indeed / Lord, free me from these chains."

Sonically, "Still in Love" sounds like it could've been played at a roller-disco, let alone a traditional Baptist church. Nevertheless, it has the bounce, energy, and innocence of youth — even including an exhortation (from Franklin) for the listener to "put their roller skates on." Despite the departure from his more reverent (read: non-secular) masterpieces, Franklin testifies: "Together we've been through hard times / But Jesus I'm still in love with You / I've had many loves in my life / But Jesus You make it feel brand new / You know it's hard for me to believe that You love me no matter what I do / So how I live, I hope You can see / That I'm in love with You."

A cursory listen of the Fight of My Life will assure fans, old and new alike, of Franklin's musical genius and knack for writing. On deeper inspection (and a closer read of the CD's lyric book), however, the power behind his testimonies will bring tears to your eyes — knowing that God had to be present as Kirk's lyrics poured onto the page. Despite the powerful lyrics, it must be said that the magic of Franklin's music ministry has always lied in his selection of talented singers that propel his God-sent melodies straight to heaven.

Quite fittingly, the Fight of My Life ends with the introspective "The Last Jesus." Chorus II states: "If we say we love Jesus / But they can't see our Jesus / Tell me what's the use if they can't see Jesus in you and me? / No more excuses / We give it all away / Because we may be the only Jesus they see."

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Article Author: Clayton Perry

Clayton Perry's mission parallels that of John Hope Franklin, Marcus Garvey and Carter G. Woodson. As the founder of the NUBIANO Project, Perry facilitates the design of projects that give voice to the Black diaspora, empower the Black community, …

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