Gospel Singer Kirk Franklin Sparks Controversy in Jamaica with Performance at ‘Fun in the Son’ Concert
Gospel artist Kirk Franklin is facing backlash from conservative Christians in Jamaica after his performance at the annual gospel concert, “Fun in the Son,” sponsored by Best Dressed Chicken, a brand of the Jamaica Broilers Group. Franklin’s energetic performance, which included gyrating and flexing his biceps while wearing a tank top and shorts, has left some concertgoers confused and offended.
The Jamaica Broilers Group, known for its commitment to Judeo-Christian values, expressed disappointment in Franklin’s performance, stating that they had expected more from the artist. The company’s President and CEO, Christopher Levy, emphasized the importance of artists being aware and sensitive to their audience, especially in a religious setting.
Despite the criticism, Franklin remains unapologetic, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to perform at the concert after a decade-long absence from the island. The 54-year-old singer promised to bring passion and emotion to his performance, acknowledging the significance of the event in his career.
This is not the first time Franklin has faced criticism for his performances. In 2019, he was rebuked by a street preacher for allegedly failing to represent the Gospel properly. However, Franklin’s supporters, including senior pastor Tony Evans, have defended his artistic expression.
As the controversy surrounding Franklin’s performance continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the gospel singer will address the concerns raised by his audience in Jamaica. Despite the backlash, Franklin’s impact on the gospel music industry and his dedicated fan base cannot be denied.