Kirk Franklin divorce, married, net worth, salary, girlfriend, wife

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<h2>Early Life and Musical Foundations</h2>
<p><a href="/biography/kirk-franklin">Kirk Dwayne Franklin</a> is an American <a href="/biography/kirk-franklin">gospel singer</a>, renowned for his groundbreaking work with gospel ensembles such as The Family, God's Property, and One Nation Crew. Widely recognized as a leading figure in urban gospel music, Franklin has received numerous accolades, including 12 Grammy Awards.</p>

<p>Franklin demonstrated a natural talent for music at an early age. He began piano lessons at the age of four and by twelve was already directing his church choir. His early musical abilities extended beyond playing by ear—he could also read and compose music. Raised by his aunt, whom he refers to as his grandmother, Franklin's upbringing was deeply rooted in church life, which played a foundational role in shaping his artistic and spiritual development.</p>

<h2>Personal Challenges and Rededication</h2>
<p>At the age of 15, Franklin became a father. Although he initially suggested abortion, the mother chose to keep the child. Franklin has since acknowledged this period as a turning point in his life, though he has maintained the privacy of his former partner. Struggling with behavioral issues following the birth of his child, Franklin was expelled from school.</p>

<p>It was the tragic shooting of a close friend that ultimately led him back to church. Recommitting himself to his faith, Franklin became deeply involved in the church choir once more. His renewed involvement caught the attention of gospel music legend Milton Biggham, who facilitated Franklin's first professional recording. At age 20, he recorded "Every Day with Jesus."</p>

<h2><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kirk_Franklin_and_the_Family">Kirk Franklin & The Family</a></h2>
<p>In 1992, Franklin assembled a 17-member choir composed of friends and associates from his community. That same year, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kirk_Franklin_and_the_Family">Kirk Franklin & The Family</a> signed a recording deal with the label GospoCentric. Their debut album remained on the Billboard Top Gospel Albums chart for 42 weeks and made history by becoming the first gospel album to sell over a million copies.</p>

<p>The group's 1996 release, <i>Whatcha Lookin' 4</i>, achieved double platinum status and earned Franklin his first Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Soul Gospel Album. In 1997, he collaborated with <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salt_(rapper)">Cheryl "Salt" James</a> of Salt-N-Pepa on a song that gained mainstream popularity, peaking atop the R&B charts for two weeks and entering the U.S. Top 40.</p>

<h2>Marriage and Personal Growth</h2>
<p>Despite his rising fame, Franklin found stability in his personal life. He married longtime friend Tammy Collins in 1996. Tammy had a child from a previous relationship, and together the couple had two more children. Their marriage helped Franklin confront and overcome many personal struggles, including childhood challenges and a previously undisclosed addiction to pornography.</p>

<p>Franklin attributes much of his recovery to Tammy's unwavering support and his faith. He has publicly discussed his struggles, emphasizing the importance of turning to both <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/God">God</a> and loved ones for strength. His transparency on the matter has been a source of encouragement for others facing similar issues.</p>

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<h2>Marital Challenges and Public Rumors</h2>
<p>Franklin also acknowledged having an affair after his marriage began, a disclosure which tested their relationship yet again. However, he and Tammy leaned on their faith and mutual support to overcome the situation. Tammy has spoken publicly about her decision to support Franklin, asserting that their bond was strong enough to withstand such trials.</p>

<p>While rumors have circulated suggesting infidelity with a secret girlfriend, Franklin has denied such claims. He admitted to having had multiple romantic relationships before meeting Tammy, but stated that his relationship with her marked a turning point in his life. Tammy has also acknowledged that while their marriage endured many ups and downs, they were committed to working through their challenges together.</p>

<h2>Mainstream Success and Album Releases</h2>
<p>In 2002, Franklin released <i>The Rebirth of Kirk Franklin</i>, which topped the Gospel Albums chart for an impressive 29 weeks. The album featured collaborations with notable figures such as T.D. Jakes, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TobyMac">TobyMac</a>, and <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jaci_Velasquez">Jaci Velasquez</a>. In 2005, his album <i>Hero</i> achieved gold status within three months and went platinum by the end of 2006.</p>

<p>Franklin’s success continued with <i>Hero</i> winning two Grammy Awards in 2007 and receiving the Stellar Award for CD of the Year. His 2007 release, <i>The Fight of My Life</i>, sold 74,000 copies in its first week and reached No. 1 on both the Billboard Top Gospel and Top Christian Albums charts.</p>

<h2>Television Ventures and Record Label</h2>
<p>In addition to his recording career, Franklin expanded into television. He served as host and co-executive producer of BET's original series <i>Sunday Best</i> and co-hosted the musical game show <i>The American Bible Challenge</i> alongside <a href="/biography/jeff-foxworthy">Jeff Foxworthy</a> on GSN.</p>

<p>In 2013, Franklin launched his own record label, Fo Yo Soul Recordings, in partnership with RCA Records. The label has provided a platform for emerging gospel artists and further solidified Franklin’s position as a prominent influence in contemporary gospel music.</p>

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