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Kirk Franklin Responds to His Dove Awards Speech being edited to cut remarks on police brutality in America for The Second Year.

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6 years ago

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Franklin won Gospel Artist of The Year at the 50th Annual GMA Dove Awards this year which was held on October 15 in Nashville. The awards show aired on TBN on October 20th. However, after the show aired, it was brought to Kirk Franklin’s attention that his speech was edited.

 “During my speech, I brought attention the murder of Atatiana Jefferson in her home by a white police officer,” Franklin said in his Instagram video. “I asked everyone in the audience and those viewing to join me in prayer for not only Atatiana’s family, including her 8-year-old nephew who witnessed the killing, but also for the family of the police officer. Last week, during the airing of the awards on the same network, again, that part of my speech was edited out.”
On Monday, Kirk announced his boycott against the Dove Awards and the Trinity Broadcasting Network after the broadcaster censored his award speech. Franklin posted a lengthy video on Instagram explaining the full scenario where he states that TBN edited out the portion of his speech in which he discussed police brutality against the black community. As a result, he is now boycotting by no longer attending events affiliated with or for the Dove Awards, Gospel Music Association or TBN.
 “It is always his goal to encourage reconciliation as well as accountability,” say Franklin. This boycott is his way of taking a stand that would hold these institutions accountable. When asked how long the boycott will last, he stated the following:
“I will no longer attend events affiliated with or for the Dove Awards, Gospel Music Association or TBN until tangible plans are put in place to protect and champion diversity especially where people of color have contributed their gifts, talents and finances to help build the viability of these institutions.” says Franklin.
Kirk is not asking others to join in his boycott. But, he is holding strong to this being his chosen response. Kirk ended his video with the following statement: “In the end we will not remember the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends.” Watch his full response below.

 

Watch Kirk’s Response To Dove Award Committee & TBN

 

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 After Franklin posted the video, the Gospel Music Association, which hosts the Dove Awards, issued the following apology:
“We would like to publicly acknowledge that we are deeply apologetic for the missteps that happened relating to the editing of Kirk Franklin’s Dove Awards acceptance speech,” said Jackie Patillo, the association president, in an official statement.
“It left a general perception that we are not concerned with key social issues that affect people of color. It is not our intent to disregard or silence any of our artists, and we are deeply saddened by this perception and are committed to change this.”
TBN, in joint efforts with the association, also published the unedited version of Franklin’s speech.

 

However, this is not the first time TBN edited out comments about police brutality in a Franklin speech. In 2016, after winning the same award “Gospel Artist of The Year”, Kirk Franklin used the stage to encourage unity and the power of all cultures praying together for each other when one is down. It was a timely message considering the state of our culture during the time of that award show. Sadly, over two years later, the message was still equally as timely. Just as before Kirk boldly and respectfully asked for everyone to come together again to pray for everyone involved. It was a powerful display for the body of Christ to show others! Our prayers are with Kirk and the Networks being held accountable. We pray that all needed change happens so all groups can continue to collectively do more kingdom work that touches and speaks to everyone.

 

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Tamara Young-McCoy is the founder of ArtSoul Konnect Entertainment Media, home to ArtSoulRadio.com, and a Radio Host/Journalist whose work has appeared in Ebony, Jet, Blavity, and other publications. With a background in TV, film, and digital media, she is dedicated to bridging faith, culture, and entertainment through storytelling and media innovation. She is passionate about mentoring young creatives, amplifying diverse voices, and advancing the Christian music industry while expanding its mainstream reach. Follow her on social media or learn more at www.tamarayoungmccoy.com.

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Fresh Off Women’s History Month, Supporters Push Anike’s “Holy Girls” Into #1 in Music & #3 Overall On YouTube Hype Charts

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5 days ago

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April 11, 2026

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Anike recently released new visuals for her single “Holy Girls” and it’s making waves!! In less than a month, her supporters have already pushed the single to #1 in Music and #3 overall on YouTube Hype Charts — a feature on YouTube that highlights the platform’s fastest-rising videos based on real-time engagement and momentum. It’s clear that this artist continues to not miss a beat!

Fresh off the cusp of women’s history month, we can’t overlook the fact that Anike recently had a baby and in that process successfully and consistently released new promotion, music, and even an educational course for up and coming artists during that time. She has been resourceful and consistent, always finding ways to continue her grind while not ignoring her personal needs and health to the best of her ability.

An artist of her caliber continuing to unite and inspire young women to grow closer to the Lord while also reaching their life goals – in their health, career and relationships – is not only inspiring; she has become an example of tenacity and strong faith. Much like the current picture of her life, this single is giving Proverbs 31 energy and showing young ladies everywhere the value of pursuing life with God at the center! It makes sense that this latest single “Holy Girls” is becoming more than a vibe – it’s becoming a new anthem!

Check it out below — and let’s continue to run it up!

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Anike Releases New “Holy Girls” Single: The New Female Anthem for The Summer!

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2 weeks ago

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April 2, 2026

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Anike released her lastest new single “Holy Girls” today and it’s set to be the new anthem for Christian ladies all summer! Giving the typical high energy all of Anike’s music gives, this one is going to make new mark in the industry and in the hearts of fans everywhere!

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Aklesso Unveils Deeply Personal Album “Still Lonely” Under Rodney Jerkin’s “Alienz Alive” Label

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4 months ago

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December 13, 2025

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After a three-city string of private listening events and insightful new interview with Sway In The Morning, Miami’s own Aklesso unveils his deeply personal album Still Lonely, released via Rodney Jerkins’ Alienz Alive. A follow-up to his praised 2024 album Lonely, the project solidifies him as one of Hip-Hop’s most honest storytellers.

Produced by Okay.Benny, William Soolua, and GLEECE, Still Lonely is a vulnerable, atmospheric exploration of fatherhood, faith, abandonment, and generational healing. The album expands the emotional universe introduced through his recent singles, including the Lecrae-collaborated single “Lonely” and the Darrel Jones–directed “Range!” featuring 1K Phew.

Listen to Still Lonely in its entirety below and watch his intimate conversation with Darkchild below:

 

The Florida-born entertainer officially signed with Alienz Alive back in September, marking a new chapter in his career. Rodney Jerkins, founder of Alienz Alive, adds:


“Aklesso’s story, his culture, and his sound all carry a weight that this generation needs to hear. From Miami to Haiti to the global stage, he’s not just making records, he’s making an impact. At Alienz Alive, we’re about building legacy, and Aklesso embodies that. I couldn’t be more excited to walk this journey with him.”

The Haitian lyricist, Aklesso, shares:

“This is the most honest project I’ve ever made. It’s not about perfect answers, it’s about presence. It’s about realizing God was with me even in the moments I felt the most alone.”

Be sure to stream and purchase this latest release – Now Available everywhere where music is sold.

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