The 100 Greatest Albums in Christian Music — #73: Kirk Franklin And The Family, Kirk Franklin And The Family (1993)

Intro

Coming in at #73 of The 100 Greatest Albums in Christian Music, Kirk Franklin’s self‑titled debut with The Family (1993) reintroduced mass‑choir power to a generation raised on new jack swing and hip‑hop. It was worship you could move to—and a movement you could join.

The Album in Context

Franklin fused traditional choir structures with contemporary rhythms, crafting arrangements that honored gospel’s past while courting radio’s present. The Family’s vocal blend—tight unisons exploding into harmonized shouts—made every chorus feel like a sanctuary in full voice. The production’s drum programming and keys kept everything modern without losing church DNA.

The album’s success widened gospel’s mainstream footprint and opened doors for choir‑centric projects throughout the ’90s. It also positioned Franklin as a bridge‑builder—comfortable on Sunday morning stages and weeknight award shows alike.

Standout Songs

• “Why We Sing” — The breakout single that turned sanctuary testimony into a nationwide choir moment. Its refrain taught youth groups and radio audiences to worship in the same language—joyful, direct, unforgettable.
• “Silver & Gold” — A devotional slow‑burn that prized presence over possessions—rooted in classic gospel values yet dressed for ’90s radio. It became a signature altar‑call moment across choirs and tours.
• “He’s Able” — An exuberant faith‑booster that showcased Franklin’s arranging gifts—rhythmic vamps, dynamic swells, and ad‑libs that feel like church breaking out on tape. Its durability in choir repertoires cemented the album’s influence.

Why It Matters

Artistically, the project refreshed gospel’s choral vocabulary with pop‑savvy structure: hooks, breakdowns, and reprises designed for participation. Spiritually, it democratized the spotlight, reminding listeners that the congregation itself is the star of worship.

Its cross‑generational resonance reshaped youth ministry soundtracks and gospel radio programming. The ripple effects can be heard in modern praise teams and choir‑driven worship that value groove and community as much as virtuosity.

What’s Next

Tomorrow in The 100 Greatest Albums in Christian Music countdown, we continue the journey at #72—stay tuned as the countdown keeps unfolding with more era‑defining faith and artistry. Be sure to catch the companion podcast episode of The CCM Professor with Greg Rice, where we connect the dots between these landmark recordings.

Soli Deo Gloria!

This post is part of the series The 100 Greatest Albums in Christian Music, celebrating the artists and recordings that defined a generation of faith-filled creativity.

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