Kirk Franklin, Try Love | Track Review

Grammy-winning gospel artist Kirk Franklin and his anointed choir preach love on the exuberant, uplifting single, “Try Love.”

“This is your day love / This is your day that you can’t get away / I been waiting all day love (How ya doin’ love) / Waiting for your embrace love…” Grammy winning gospel artist Kirk Franklin knows just how to pen and deliver inspirational and uplifting songs. His four-and-a-half-minute single, “Try Love” is no exception.  He composed this thoughtful record alongside Andy Morris, Ian Owen Devaney, and Lisa Stansfield. Furthermore, Franklin produces this contemporary gospel record with urban contemporary vibes with Devin Morrison and Maxwell Stark. All told, the results are incredibly positive.  

At the onset, the choir provides amorous, exuberant vocals in the eventual chorus. This sets the tone.  “Try Love” is chocked full of positivity, emphasizing the power of love: “Get out and touch somebody / Love somebody / Hold somebody / Don’t you know that you just may be the only Jesus that they see.” As far as sound, “Try Love” features sweet melodies and a solid, highly effective harmonic scheme.  Also, there are delightful vocal harmonies, always a pro.  While the chorus is the section to beat, the bridge is notable, providing a distinct change of pace, following the brief second verse. Here, the tempo is quicker, while the message of love remains constant:

“I been around the world and I-I-I, know it’s going crazy

I cried so many nights and I-I-I, need someone to save me

No greater love or sacrifice (Love)

Love on the cross You paid the price (C’mon)

That’s why I trust You with my life, and I take the chance and try love

Don’t say goodbye love.”

As always, throughout “Try Love”, Franklin plays the role of encourager, minister, preaching L-O-V-E. All told, this record has a great message that believers and non-believers can get behind .

Kirk Franklin • “Try Love” • Fo Yo Soul Recordings / RCA • 8.25.23

[: Brent Faulkner/The Musical Hype; Fo Yo Soul Recordings / RCA; OpenClipart-Vectors, PIRO via Pixabay]