Hero

Album: HeroKirk FranklinKirk Franklin's seventh album, Hero, is special in more ways than one.The disc is his second as the sole titular artist -- no Family, God's Property, or budding protégé to introduce to the world -- and his first-ever all-out studio album, a prospect that gives him more leverage to try new things and push the envelope in ways that doing a live recording wouldn't let him.Franklin is unique in that he's more a master of ceremonies and choir leader than anything else, which means Hero's ambitious, often intricate compositions are meant for others to sing and make their own. In this case, the guest list is an endless parade of gospel luminaries new and established, including Yolanda Adams, Dorinda Clark-Cole, Marvin Winans, J. Moss, Tye Tribbett, and Franklin's own terrific backup vocalists.Not surprisingly, these collaborations represent Hero's churchier side, which can range from explosive ("Could've Been") and dramatic ("Hero") one moment to demure and understated the next ("Afterwhile," "Brokenhearted"). Stylistically, though, Franklin is at his best when he ventures outside of gospel into realms his peers rarely visit, like disco-pop ("Looking for You"), classic R&B ("Keep Your Head"), '80s pop/rock ("Let It Go"), and soul ("Why," featuring none other than Stevie Wonder)

I'll say it as many times as I need to: this is a man who is telling my life in his music. I like the fact that there's nothing he hasn't touched on through his music and he's not afraid to help others get started in the industry. Most of his music I've purchased more twice or more and that's because people tend to leave the case but not the cd but it's okay because if it blesses them by all means, have it and be blessed especially if it helps you through a rough time in your life.

Kirk Franklin bares his soul in this CD. I've only been listening to "Hero" for the last few days and already I feel his spirit connecting with mine. His appearance on Oprah in November corroborates what I feel with his lyrics in this CD - he is a Christian in recovery. Aren't we all? Those "Christians" who would castigate him for his weaknesses are the kind of Christian I avoid like the plague. "Let Him who is without sin cast the first stone". Those are Jesus' own words and those should shut up the "Scribes and Pharisees" (you know them, the "holier than thou") today just like they did in Jesus' day.I applaud Kirk for his honesty and forthrightness. This CD has the anointing of the Holy Spirit, symbolic of Christ's forgiveness and desire to make us all whole. I treasure each song, each lyric, because it reminds me that I'm not alone in my own personal battle with demons.God bless you, Kirk and anyone with the courage to let this CD do God's work in your heart and in your life.

mr. franklin is the hero to produce HERO. he deserves an Oscar for all of his projects. cant believe he's not coming to new jersey.

Love his music

Amen

Hello Everyone! I'm sending this review to say....this CD is AWESOME! I received it in "mint condition" and much quicker than what I expected, which was a bonus! I've owned this CD before and it got lost during a time when I moved, and I just had to have it again. I love that you can find pretty much anything you need "old or new" at Amazon.com. I'm a huge fan of both.... the service at Amazon.com and Kirk Franklin music!

By far my favorite Kirk Franklin album.

There are very few artists who only have to bring out an album & I'll buy it without hearing a few samples, Kirk Franklin is definitely in that category, he never dissappoints and what an album. Which is my favourite? all of them! From "Hero", to "Shout" (listen to the words), "Imagine me" speaks to all of us to the funky "Looking for you" they're all up there, though my absolute favourite track "Why" featuring legend Stevie Wonder had me up and dancing in seconds, "First Love" tugs at you and is an awesome testimony to God's love for us, his son's peom is brilliant, my nephews listen to it time and again - great affirmation. If you want to introduce anyone to how inspiring Christian music can be, lend them this CD. Very truthful, open and inclusive. He's definitely been blessed.

Although I'm a Christian I have to confess that my music collection contains more R&B than gospel, but I am more than happy to add this album to my collection. Whilst I have been aware of Kirk Franklin for a while this is the first album of his that I have purchased. The standout track for me is "Why" featuring Stevie Wonder which samples Denise Williams' "Free". I heard it being played in someones car and it was this particular track that led me to buy the album - Quite frankly I would have brought the album simply for this one track.

A lovely cd

Excellent product, affordable Price

A good album by Kirk. He never really disappoints. Another album to add to my collection.