Kirk Franklin Brings “I Am What I Am” Experience to NYC and NJ
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
KIRK FRANKLIN CELEBRATES RELEASE OF I AM WHAT I AM WITH MORE THAN 1,000 FANS AT AGAPE FAMILY WORSHIP CENTER
Curated in conjunction with Root Consulting & Seven Marketing and Consulting, the release-day listening session featured new music, beloved classics, and a conversation hosted by Dr. Lawrence Powell and Root Magazine CEO, Hasan James
With a line wrapping around the church before entry, the anticipation carried into an evening of music, conversation, and celebration. Franklin revisited beloved songs from his catalog like “Melodies from Heaven” and “Silver and Gold,” while introducing selections from the new album, taking the audience on a journey through the music that has connected generations of gospel listeners.
RAHWAY, N.J. — More than 1,000 fans gathered at Agape Family Worship Center on Friday, October 30, 2026, to celebrate the release of Kirk Franklin’s 14th album, I Am What I Am. Curated by Root Magazine founder and editor-in-chief Hasan James and Seven Marketing and Consulting, the evening gave attendees the opportunity to experience the new project alongside Franklin on the very day it was released.
Throughout the night, Franklin brought his signature energy beyond the stage, dancing among attendees, singing with the crowd, and keeping fans on their feet. The experience offered both the excitement of a live performance and the personal connection of an intimate listening session.
A Q&A hosted by Hasan James and Agape’s pastor, Dr. Lawrence Powell, provided another opportunity for attendees to connect with Franklin and hear more about the new project.
Presenting the celebration at Agape on the album’s release date made the evening especially meaningful. The church’s hospitality, production team, and volunteers helped bring the vision to life, creating a welcoming experience for Franklin and the more than 1,000 people who came to celebrate with him.
Franklin’s commitment to his audience continued long after the music ended. With fans again lining up around the church, he spent approximately two additional hours signing physical CDs and posing for photographs. He remained until the final CD was signed and everyone waiting had an opportunity to meet him.
The evening demonstrated why Franklin remains one of gospel music’s most celebrated figures: an extraordinary catalog, an unmistakable stage presence, and a willingness to give his time generously to the people who support his music.
For Agape Family Worship Center and Root Consulting, the release-day celebration marked a memorable collaboration rooted in music, faith, hospitality, and community.
About Root Magazine
Founded in 2009 by Hasan James, Root Magazine covers gospel music, faith, and Christian lifestyle through artist interviews, editorial features, and live experiences that connect audiences with the voices shaping the culture.
Media Contact: Hasan James
Root Magazine | Root Management & Consulting
Hasan@RootMagazineonline.com
www.rootmagazineonline.com
