Kirk Franklin, a trailblazer in gospel music, is set to receive the prestigious Black Music Icon Award during the 2025 Recording Academy Honors Presented by the Black Music Collective. This marquee GRAMMY Week event will be held on January 30, 2025, at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles.
Kirk Franklin: A Legacy of Transforming Gospel Music
The award recognizes Franklin’s groundbreaking contributions to music and his dedication to mentoring future generations of creators. Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of the Recording Academy, highlighted Franklin’s transformative role, saying, “Kirk has not only revolutionized gospel music but has also bridged the gap between genres, redefining the possibilities of musical expression and inspiring generations with his message of hope and faith.”
Franklin, a twenty-time GRAMMY winner, has spent decades reshaping the landscape of gospel music, infusing it with contemporary sounds while maintaining its core message of faith and resilience. Mason Jr. further praised Franklin’s contributions, noting, “His unwavering dedication to his craft and his legacy of service embody the very essence of the Black Music Icon Award. We look forward to honoring Kirk for his profound influence on the industry and the countless lives he continues to touch worldwide.”
The Recording Academy Honors, now in its fourth year, is part of a series of events leading up to the 67th GRAMMY Awards on February 2, 2025. GRAMMY Week is a celebration of the music community, bringing together artists, industry leaders, and fans to honor the year’s achievements and cultural impact.
In addition to Franklin’s recognition, the evening will also spotlight Alicia Keys, who will receive the Dr. Dre Global Impact Award. This accolade celebrates artists whose influence transcends music, honoring their entrepreneurial achievements, philanthropy, and global reach.
As GRAMMY Week 2025 approaches, excitement builds for an event that promises to showcase the best of Black music and its enduring impact.