Gospel singer Kirk Franklin is defending his relationship with Kanye West, saying, “Kanye is not me. I am not him. He is my brother I am proud to do life with.”
Franklin says he was heavily criticized by some in the Christian community for participating on Ye’s new album, The Life of Pablo. Kanye originally said the project was a gospel album, and seemed to confirm that notion after appearing in group photo with Kirk inside a recording studio. In a lengthy IG message, Franklin addressed those quick to criticize him and those thirsty to condemn Kanye.
He wrote;
“Kanye is not me. I am not him. He is my brother I am proud to do life with. No sprints, but Marathons; like most of us are on. Before one song was released, I was crucified because my brother asked me to take a picture. Again “no Kanye, you’re not good enough”? No. That is a dangerous message I believe we send to the world when our posture is they have to meet certain requirements before they are worthy to kiss the ring. It says people are not redeemable, forgivable or candidates for grace.
That my friend is religious. I will not turn my back on my brother. I will love him, prayerfully grow with him. However long he’ll have me, and however long the race takes. To a lot of my Christian family, I’m sorry he’s not good enough, Christian enough, or running at your pace…and as I read some of your comments, neither am I. That won’t stop me from running. Pray we win.”
Kirk also joined Yeezus on saturday night on SNL to perform “Ultralight Beam” alongside Chance the Rapper, Kelly Price and The-Dream.
