Today, Kirk Franklin released a blockbuster short film revealing the dark truth of his paternity entitled, “Father’s Day: A Kirk Franklin Story. In the film, Franklin is not a top selling, platinum certified arena filling artist. He’s a man in search of himself. “Where did I come from?” and “Who am I?” are questions that bring men to their an early end when unanswered. Kirk Franklin, the man accused of not only taking gospel music “too far but further than ever imagined lays bare the soul shattering pain of an unresolved paternity search.
Simultaneously, the film chronicles his journey of completing his 13th album while also coming to terms with the painful truth of his identity and paternity. At one point, the search for truth preempts recording as he traces the whispers from Riverside to nearby in Arlington to find the man he can safely call his father. Through a series of fateful events, Kirk Franklin discovers that the man he knew as his father was not and that there may be some truth to the rumors circulating throughout Fort Worth and the “Riverside” community. These rumors asserted that the man we would all come to later know as Rick Hubbard may be his father.
Mr. Hubbard proactively took a paternity test and sent the results to Franklin who then took a paternity test to match against Hubbard’s. The test confirmed paternity but brought more questions than closure. Franklin then discovered another barrier to understanding was trying to resolve his strained relationship with his mother. She was in no mood to make the situation better and remained defiant in denial of the results.
Kirk Franklin has been very transparent about his paternity journey and this short film takes us the deepest into the heart and mind of one of the world’s most electrifying entertainers in any genre. With “Losing My Religion,” Franklin revisited his catalog and journey through “Twenty Years in One Night” and an unmatched amalgam of world-class talent. With “Father’s Day” Franklin’s 13th album, he punctuates the parasitical identity crisis that has been a part of his 30 year journey, woven into each lyric, phase and phrase.
“Father’s Day” as an album and short film both matter because sonship matters to Kirk Franklin and it always has. Unlike many men who have compartmentalized the existential crisis created by paternal absenteeism, Kirk’s transparency reveals the innate desire of sons for their fathers and the deep pain experienced because the desire never truly goes away. Not even when you have spiritual fathers who fill in the gap like Dr. Tony Evans. I’ll never forget watching Kirk literally sitting at Dr. Evans’ feet asking questions and inquiring about subjects later addressed in “Losing My Religion.”
Kirk Franklin performs in Dallas during his “Twenty Years in One Night” concert. Franklin combined 20 years of hits in one concert tour, performing with an incredible lineup of singers and musicians. Photo Credit: Fred Willis, SoulProsper Media Group
Reflecting on the aftermath of meeting his father, Kirk says, “He didn’t even know he had a son and I didn’t even know I had a father.” He went on to say, “I was that close to having a daddy. I wanted a daddy so bad!” Franklin discovered that his father lives close to his studio and that his youngest son played with one of his neighbors at a nearby house.
This ordeal wouldn’t be complete without meeting with his mother, so through his aunt Sandra, he met with his estranged mother, Debra for the first time in 23 years. Unfortunately, closure wasn’t gained and he made a painful decision in the wake of their second meeting which included both his mother and father. The harsh reality of Kirk Franklin’s story is that he spent majority of his life without either parent, though both of them were alive and never truly far from him, at all. He said of this endeavor, “I don’t want anybody being able to have a conversation about this except for me.” If you’ve ever been the subject of questionable paternity, you know exactly what he means by that.
Regardless of your station in life, you’re never more than the reduction of an illegitimate child when you’re the topic of those clandestine conversations. Knowing this, it’s no wonder that you become as he stated, “...indoctrinated in trauma that you become institutionalized in your trauma.“
While closing one chapter, there was yet another to bring closure to. Franklin’s strained relationship with his oldest son, Kerrion was also brought to a resolution in this short film. After two years, the two men not only loved on each other but relished the revelation that changed everything about their relationship. Tearfully, Kerrion confessed that “this is the only thing that I need that’s been missing from my life. There’s nothing I ask God for every single day I wake up. I have everything I want except you and my grandfather.”
Father’s Day on the calendar has passed, but October 6, 2023 is a day many will be looking forward to as Kirk Franklin tackles sonship from a new, possibly healed perspective. After watching “Father’s Day: A Kirk Franklin Story,” what are your thoughts? Do you think this will convince men and women to reach out to their estranged fathers and mothers or for them to finally accept the children they’ve denied for years?Watch and share your feedback with us.
Pastor, Comedian and all around good guy Fred Thomas known as “Pastor Fred” passed away on last week and as you can imagine, there is a deep sense of loss that has overtaken the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Actually, this loss has been felt across America as The Pastor Fred touched lives with laughter on the Rickey Smiley Morning Show, as a musician and performer in the traditional and quartet segments of the gospel music industry. He was also a churchman and had served as Pastor of two churches in his ministry career.
I’m not sure if everybody knew Fred, or if he knew everybody! He was always good for a laugh, even when he wasn’t feeling good. His jovial nature and sunny disposition was always a bright light wherever he was and it’s fair to say that life’s skies are a little overcast, since he passed away. Whenever we would see each other, I would always say “two Freds are better than one” and this week, I’m hurting a little. When gospel icon Joe Ligon passed away, Pastor Fred graciously accepted my invitation to come on the show to share memories of the “Bossman”. Pastor Fred was the only non member of the Mighty Clouds of Joy on the broadcast as I was joined by Ron Stapleton, Ervin “Big Man” Williams and longtime member, Johnny Valentine.
I’m just a Kingdom dude trying to heal the land one laugh at a time!
Pastor Fred Thomas
On a more personal note, Fred was an inspiration to me because he was a striver. He was a man striving to live out his life’s dreams and provide for his family. Whenever there was a setback, he bounced back, just not this time.
Fred Thomas was a musician, singer, Pastor, actor and comedian. As a man, he was a father and husband and from where I could see, he did his best in each role and talent. It seems as if he knew everybody in church and met even more people on the air with Rickey Smiley. The two of them could go on for hours and even days sharing laughs across social media. Fred was a pure comedian who didn’t need to make fun of anyone or anything to be funny…he would show you the comedy in each moment or setting.
Fred’s personality and laugh were larger than life and even though his star shone bright, he was perfectly fine here at home. You know what I mean when I talk about the switch up with fame. Instead, it seems that with each viral video, commercial, role in a play, tv show or movie, he wanted to do more! When Blue Bell was removed from the shelves because of a listeria outbreak, it was Fred’s gospel inspired song that seemingly got the belts moving on assembly lines to bring back ‘the best ice cream in the country.’ Not to be outdone, another Texas treasure, Whataburger created a campaign featuring Fred Thomas, who in another viral video sang the praises of the chain’s honey butter chicken biscuit.
In a 2016 interview for Examiner.com following his viral Blue Bell video, I described “Pastor Fred” as more than a comedian, he was a heart doctor. His jokes just might knock you sideways or cause you to laugh yourself into a stupor. He understood that ‘a merry heart doeth good like a medicine’ (Proverbs 17:22) and did all he can to heal the land with laughter! Pastor Fred was able to not only inspire others through his comedy, comedy was healing for him as a victim of molestation.
Thomas’ videos exceeded normal views and regularly nudged the viral meter. Thomas even found a way to speak on current events by “whooping hot topics” and found himself at the center of another hot topic when teenagers in McKinney came face to face with the barrel of a police firearm. Thomas was tapped to be a part of the “Heal McKinney” event in the weeks following the altercation that made national media headlines.
Two Freds are better than one…
Here’s the conversation from that 2016 interview with The Pastor Fred:
This interview was originally posted on Examiner.com and was transcribed from a phone call. Here’s our conversation,
Willis: Anything in particular you want the people to know about you?
Thomas: I’m just a Kingdom dude trying to heal the land one laugh at a time
Willis: You’re an actual Pastor?
Thomas: Without charge lol. In other words I don’t currently shepherd a flock, but I’ve Pastored two COGIC churches
Willis: Oh, cool. I first heard of you with it ain’t no fun being fat, was that your first bit?
Thomas: Yes
Willis: What inspired you to go public with the bit, were you trying to go viral?
Thomas: Not at all. When I get inspired I just put it out there. Had no idea it would go this far.
Willis: Favorite Blue Bell flavor?
Thomas: Butter Pecan
Willis: Yeah mine too. You were visible with the McKinney pool party aftermath and you’re going to OKC for ‘A Night of Healing’. How are you merging comedy with ministry, especially when some things are no laughing matter?
Thomas: God told me I’m moving from church to Kingdom. Laughter brings about healing which opens people up to deal with issues. God told me that “FAT” to everyone means “Facing All Trials”. I was molested as a kid and after 30 years I dealt with it through laughter and in turn, that’s how I help others.
Willis: Wow! So what’s next for you, what are your aspirations for your comedy? You see yourself on bigger stages than church?
Thomas: …At this point I’m following God’s lead!
Viewing Details:
Fred Thomas was a gift to the world, and we are so blessed to have had time with him here in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. He blessed so many people with laughter and his uplifting spirit. To say he will be missed doesn’t even convey the deep sense of loss that has engulfed the metroplex since news of his passing broke.
Phillip Silverstein, International fine art photographer, recently shot Ashanti’s exclusively luxe 40th birthday campaign in Antigua. Shot in a bikini, Ashanti is in the best shape of her life, maintaining a tight four day a week workout routine. The singer sported multiple outfit changes throughout the week as the two scouted and creatively directed each shoot together. They shot over eight looks around the island at the beautiful Hodges Bay Resort featuring brands like Versace, Chanel, Deviant la Vie, Ashera, Bikini Crush Swimwear, Adinas jewels, and Retrofete. Silverstein, who is known around the world for his unique photographic perspectives utilizing naturally lit locations, photoshop-free finishes, and single exposures made this a combination in paradise. His photos transcribe as artwork, drawing the viewer in and brightening up any room. Working with Ritz Carlton & Mandarin Oriental, Silverstein’s work has been published in Maxim magazine and he is a licensed FAA drone pilot, flying in 20 countries.
Silverstein, who grew up as an athlete in South Carolina, picked up a camera just 6 years ago while living in San Diego before a trip to Chile, and the rest was history. He has displayed at solo Art shows, been featured in galleries, while simultaneously amassing a celebrity portfolio including Floyd Mayweather, Quavo, Rufus Du Sol, Flo Rida, Odell Beckham Jr, Lottie Moss, Saweetie, and many others. His clientele has grown internationally alongside his travels, commissioned by companies in London, Dubai, Japan, Spain, Costa Rica, Australia, Greece, Mexico, Sweden, Thailand, Hong Kong, Bali, and across the states with works focusing on Miami, New York, San Diego, and Los Angeles, where he currently resides.
https://www.phillipsilverstein.com/smilemore
“I’m very grateful for this opportunity. It’s just a testament to believing in yourself and developing a unique skill set and vision for what you want to accomplish and where you want to go with your craft. You know, flying private to your 53rd country with a multi-platinum Grammy winner to cover her birthday sounds like a dream assignment, and it actually is. It’s one of those moments that makes you truly believe and understand that anything is possible.
She was super easy and fun to work with. She’s always a good time and brings amazing energy! She does her own stunts and serves as an inspiration to women and men all over the world on how to be a great person and do things the right way. Grateful to the Douglas family and God!”
Philip Silverstein
Despite COVID, this is Silverstein’s 8th International destination of the year. He recently launched a print store on his website with a few high end limited edition products in the works. Ashanti’s newest single Fall Slowly ft. Joyner Lucas is now streaming on all platforms.
We keep our ears the ground and our feet to the beat of the streets to bring you news you can use. Every now and then a story comes across our desk that demands our input and whatever you’ve been reading about Ice Cube this week, needs some clarifying. In this article, we’re sharing the actual press release sent out by Ice Cube highlighting his activity with BOTH Presidential campaigns. We urge you to read it and read up on the Contract With Black America before you tweet or post. We do break rank with his previous statements and want to encourage EVERYONE to vote. One term of the Trump administration has been too long, already! The late Congressman John Lewis told us to get into good trouble, necessary trouble and we plan to, each chance we get!
With each election cycle, celebrities morph into influencers and even thought leaders in favor of candidates. Celebrities can increase their net worth or fame index based on successful stumping for or against a candidate or policy. With this reality, many voters look to those outside the world of politics so gain insight on issues of interest to them. Ice Cube’s recent calls to action have been rebuffed in large part because he has not committed to casting a ballot for President in 2020 amid demanding changes in favor of Black Americans on each governmental level. Voting is the democratic practice of impacting and affecting change, so it’s easy to understand why so many feel like his ideas lack logic.
Early voting has begun and many have already cast their vote but many others are still holding out to be swayed by last minute developments. Negativity surrounding the #CWBA, ties to the Trump campaign and fallout among Cube’s longtime fans is the type of misnomer can thrust a political campaigns to victory. So, we wanted to interject ourselves into the conversation and give readers a chance to see what progress looks like. In short, Ice Cube is no longer depending on the “system” to do right by Black Americans and is demanding the attention of our elected officials, starting with the President. The idea isn’t bad, the timing of it is off. Both the Trump and Biden campaigns have proffered their version of striving to meet the demands (you can read it on the website), but I’m sure you’ve only seen the Trump response.
Cube has never been one to bite his tongue so be real careful about what you “heard” him say. Even if he’s made a mistake in allowing the Trump campaign to use his name and ideas (we strongly doubt this administration will follow through on any promise to black people), the real damage will come if he has dissuaded undecided voters, people mistakenly vote for Trump believing he has endorsed him or people follow suit and don’t vote at all as he has expressed. Ice Cube has interjected himself in political conversations in California, and got a shout out when Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill creating a task force to make way for California to make slavery reparations.
What Is the Contract with Black America? Get ALL the details, here
As citizens and lawmakers both, we are joining to demand the Contract with Black America be addressed immediately to finally create the “more perfect union” all Americans deserve. As such, it is time for a complete paradigm shift in how we run our institutions and operate our country. The problems facing America are too deep and wide to simply reform one area or another. Long-lasting solutions demand a comprehensive thorough “rethink” of America so that each new approach in each area supports the success of the others. This Contract with Black America will provide conceptual approaches in several areas.
Darrick Hamilton, in the Preface to the Contract, says “This Contract with Black America strikes at the heart of racism and presents a blueprint to achieve racial economic justice. It was written in the backdrop of the killing of George Floyd, which set off a wave of protests not seen since the Civil Rights Era of the 1950’s and ’60’s, and a global pandemic in which the Black mortality rate is more than double the White rate and in which 45% (nearly half) of Black-owned businesses closed.
That the impact of something presumably random, such as a pandemic, however catastrophic, can be so linked to one’s racial identity is highly problematic – and further evidence that, as a nation, we are failing miserably.
This links to a larger political and economic vulnerability, whether we’re in a pandemic or not: the immoral devaluation of Black lives has been ingrained in America’s political economy and is long overdue for a reckoning. This Contract with Black America is a patriotic pathway to promote our shared prosperity and achieve racial economic justice.”
Ambassador Andrew Young is equally supportive. “The Pandemic has revealed to us the importance of the essential worker of which many are minorities. We can grow no stronger without improving the sustainability of those at the bottom of the economic pyramid. The Contract for Black America is a comprehensive step toward an action plan that addresses the future stability of minorities and essential workers across the nation.”
To address racial inequality, after reading the Contract with Black America, we the undersigned agree to support and demand an open debate and a clear and fair vote within the first 100 days of the 117th Congress in 2021 on the following proposals to be codified into specific bills:
Bill to Guarantee Black Opportunity and Representation. Adopt a plan of “Neo-Reconstruction” to redress past wrongs systematically imposed on Black Americans economically throughout many generations that has resulted in a “wealth gap” where the average White family has 10x the wealth of a Black Family. In addition to some of the economic initiatives listed below, also formally apologize to Black Americans for past discrimination and slavery. Additionally Black opportunity and representation will include: Affirmative Action in schools public and private; per student funding in states on an equal basis instead of paid by local property taxes; Black representation on all government civil rights bodies; civil rights classes mandatory in elementary schools; Gerrymandering reform; additional polling places in Black and minority neighborhoods; Juneteenth to become a Federal holiday.
Bank Lending Reform. Bank lending will be regulated to require banks to lend a percentage of all loan and credit categories on an equal basis to the Black population each Bank serves. However, the minimum threshold must yearly meet the percentage equal to the national Black population (currently approximately 13.4%). Rates on Black loans federally and from banks to be same average rates as Whites.
Federal Funding of “Baby Bonds”. Pass federal program providing every child with a government funded trust account at birth starting with a $1,000 contribution. As proposed by Senator Booker and Representative Pressley, accounts to be managed by the Treasury and only those born into lower-wealth families would receive more contributions each year up to $46,500 total. At age 18 access to the funds allowed but use restricted to asset enhancing actions such as buying homes, starting businesses and funding education.
Federal Reserve and Government Pensions. For qualified Black Americans, Federal Reserve to allow a one-time interest free loan for home ownership. The Fed to ensure Banks and institutions it oversees comply with Bank Lending Reform. Fed to adopt Modern Monetary Theory with goal of Full Employment and avoidance of Actual Inflation. Federal and State pension funds control over a trillion dollars. They must allocate 13.4% of their investments into Black owned enterprises and businesses. Venture Capital and Private Equity funds that take money public entities must invest 13.4% of their total funds in Black owned businesses.
Finance Oversight. A Banking Commission (or even a Cabinet or Sub-Cabinet post) will be set up to overlook and report on Black and minority lending, housing ownership and mortgages, and enforcement of items 2 and 3 above. Such authority will also oversee and audit federal programs such as Economic Opportunity Zones and Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) to determine who is benefiting from disbursement of such funds. Will provide for a transparent reporting mechanism for abuses to economic programs designed to benefit communities in need.
Personal Data and Credit. Most states publicly release bulk data about arrestees unchecked. Like the 1970 Fair Credit Reporting Act regarding credit data, there must be guidelines regarding arrest records that allow similar privacy and accuracy protections and the right to dispute and correct inaccurate data. Credit services will be reformed to mandate consideration of individual consumer data on rent, utility, cellphone, and other like bill payments.
Prison Reform. Privately run prisons will be abolished, prison labor disallowed without consent, and nonviolent offenders incarcerated for 10 years or longer will be freed if good behavior standards met. All prisoners for marijuana possession freed. First offense for illegal drug use or possession to require government payment for entry into an approved drug rehabilitation program rather than imprisonment. Once any prisoner completes sentence, voting rights are restored.
Judicial Reforms. Eliminate mandatory minimums and three strike laws. The Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice reformed through stricter guidelines and greater oversight over police departments. DOJ can be sued for non-compliance. Lynching to become a federal hate crime and the Ku Klux Klan declared a terrorist organization.
Police Reform Act. Police reforms will be implemented in an expansive act that will at minimum include: Elimination of Qualified Immunity; requirement of mandatory malpractice insurance for police officers; make municipalities liable for unconstitutional actions by police; mandatory use of dashboard and body cams; elimination of chokeholds and “no-knock” warrants; establishment of residency requirements, de-escalation training, and requirement to update training; severe penalties for evidence tampering including withholding DNA. A federal database of police and disciplinary records established and made public and once fired for cause cannot be rehired. Creation of Office of Independent Prosecutors to solely focus on prosecuting police accused of wrongdoing. Other reforms as listed in greater detail in the Contract with Black America.
FCC Licensing of public airwaves. Broadcast networks will be required to air Black produced content equal to 20% of the total content on the network as measured by time.
Confederate Monuments and Institutions. Elimination of all Confederate statues and uses or displays of Confederate flags on government grounds or property with public access. Rename all streets, schools, public structures, etc. named after Confederate soldiers or leaders. A memorial will be built in Washington D.C. to victims of police excessive force.
AJP Program for Education and Jobs. Adoption of AJP, A Public/Private program that provides access to jobs and education and/or training for people willing to put in the work and commitment.
Black Responsibility. Chronic poverty creates an atmosphere full of negativity, frustration, hopelessness, depression, alcoholism, drug abuse, crime, and violence. These are some of conditions that plague the Black Community which is dealing with extreme generational poverty. As we begin to gain social and economic equality it is our duty to clean up ourselves and our community. This contract is a 2-way street. As we gain social and economic equality, we must begin to dissolve any bitterness in our hearts for past wrongs. We must become better citizens who are more productive on all levels of American society. We really must step up after we pass the Contract with Black America with no more excuses left in the kiddie. Our entertainers should be persuaded to deliver more positive content that leads our youth to make better choices in life. A new pride must develop with these new opportunities and we must fight against negativity, frustration, hopelessness, depression, alcoholism, drug abuse, crime, and violence.
On yesterday, social media erupted in response to a now viral clip of Jada Pinkett Smith’s Red Table Talk. The show is still fairly new, but has made headlines since its inception. The show has done so well that it garnered a 2019 Daytime Emmy nomination. The latest installment of the show featured women of the Curry basketball dynasty. During the show, a myriad of topics came to light and because the red table is a safe space, the women were able to share their truths without judgment. The clip heard ’round the world came from Ayesha Curry who admitted that she sometimes struggles with insecurity when her husbands fans/admirers get a little too close.
“Something that really bothers me and has given me a sense of an insecurity…Yeah, there are all these women throwing themselves. But me, I don’t have any of that. I have zero male attention. And I begin to internalize that, like ‘Is something wrong with me?’ I’m like, ‘That’s not fair.’ I don’t want it. But it would be nice to know that someone’s looking.”
There was a lot in the video and of course a lot to break down. I think the issue is actually in what she said. Many women have said that they feel the same way- in and out of context. I think that snippet has created a conversation that we need to have. How do we satisfy that longing?!? Especially as believers, shouldn’t Christ fill that void? As husbands/wives isn’t that our job to affirm our spouse? I’m glad that that soundbite is out because it creates a conversation around THAT topic. Not everyone can discuss the other issues, but as we see daily many more people can identify with this “surface level” issue.
I believe that as spouses, we do bear the burden of affirming our spouse so that they never doubt themselves whether in our presence or not. This thought that was expressed is not unique and has caused harm in countless relationships. For some, this is the root of infidelity. For others, it is the root of bad treatment and even emotional abuse. YES, other topics were discussed during the show and I am so glad that the Curry women had the chance to talk in that safe space, but I am more glad that we are talking about the insecurity that threatens to rob couples of the joy they find in their union.
On today’s episode of “Talking Points”, I deal with this issue. The first thing we can do to heal this void is to accept these feelings as very real! They are real and are very present. To prevent them from sabotaging the family, I think that us husbands need to take the necessary step of making our wives feel secure and loved by us as best we can. A by-product of our love and security should be high self-esteem and self-awareness. This isn’t always the case because often, the women we love are fighting a battle that began long before they met us.
Many people have spent the day on and off social media discussing only a portion of the very in-depth interview and the debate will continue. I think that instead of debating, we should pull up a chair and listen to the fragile hearts in our lives that feel the same way. Those who are visible but feel unseen, wrapped in a warm embrace yet shivering in a cold reality, those who cannot feel the love they are shown. Let’s create a safe space to discuss emotional security in marriage!
Beyoncé and adidas come together with a shared respect for and commitment to creativity, and the belief that through sport, we have the power to change lives –
– This unique relationship aligns both parties around a set of core principles including the importance of women in leadership, shared ownership, empowerment and collaboration –
– Beyoncé will be a creative partner for the brand, develop new signature footwear and apparel, as well as re-launch Ivy Park with adidas –
adidas and Beyoncé have announced a multi-layered partnership that will include inspiring and empowering the next generation of creators, driving positive change in the world through sport, and identifying new business opportunities.
“This is the partnership of a lifetime for me,” said Beyoncé. “adidas has had tremendous success in pushing creative boundaries. We share a philosophy that puts creativity, growth and social responsibility at the forefront of business. I look forward to re-launching and expanding Ivy Park on a truly global scale with a proven, dynamic leader.”
Beyoncé
Beyoncé and adidas are natural partners, both with a deep respect for and commitment to creativity, equity and creators. Neither ascribes to the typical stereotypes of athletes and what athleisure clothing and footwear should be, and instead, will bring to life a shared vision of inclusion that will forever alter the opportunities and landscape for all.
The partnership will result in the co-creation of exciting new products – from performance to lifestyle – and a unique purpose-driven program focused on empowering and enabling the next generation of athletes, creators and leaders. Meaningful and rich storytelling will be the foundation for both Beyoncé’s collection with adidas as well as the re-launch of her Ivy Park brand. This partnership respects Beyoncé’s ownership of her company which continues her journey as one of the first black women to be the sole owner of an athleisure brand.
“As the creator sports brand, adidas challenges the status quo and pushes the limits of creativity through its open source approach. Beyoncé is an iconic creator but also a proven business leader, and together, we have the ability to inspire change and empower the next generation of creators,” said Eric Liedtke, Executive Board Member – Global Brands, adidas
adidas is excited to welcome Beyoncé to the family!
