BET Awards 2024: 5 Times Kirk Franklin Secured the Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award
Legendary gospel artist Kirk Franklin reaffirms his impact in the genre with two nominations for the "Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award" at the upcoming BET Awards 2024. The “I Smile” singer maintains his lead as the most nominated and awarded artist in this esteemed category.
Throughout his career, Franklin has consistently delivered soul-stirring and uplifting music, resonating with audiences worldwide and earning him numerous accolades, including seven wins in this category. This year, he faces competition from fellow gospel icons such as CeCe Winans, Shirley Caesar, Erica Campbell, Maverick City Music, Naomi Raine, Halle Bailey, Tems, and Chandler Moore for their song "God Problems," alongside Halle Bailey and Tems.
As we countdown to culture’s biggest night, we’re taking a trip down memory lane and revisiting some of Franklin’s most memorable winning moments. And don’t miss the BET Awards 2024, hosted by Golden Globe-winning actress Taraji P. Henson, airing on Sunday, June 30th, at 8 p.m. And let’s not forget the highly anticipated return of the BET Experience 2024, Presented by Walmart.
The week-long celebration promises star-studded performances, comedy shows, thought-provoking panels, and hands-on workshops to immerse you in the heart of the cultural revolution. For BET Experience, Presented by Walmart tickets, click here.
BET Awards 2006
The singer earned his first "Best Gospel Artist" award in 2006, a category that was later renamed the "Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award" in 2017. Other nominees at the time included Smokie Norful, Yolanda Adams, Mary Mary, and CeCe Winans. Franklin won the award again the following year before Marvin Sapp claimed the title in 2008.
BET Awards 2016
The star earned his third, formerly known as “Best Gospel Artist,” win during the BET Awards 2016 hosted by Tracee Ellis Ross and Anthony Anderson. The musician was nominated alongside Anthony Brown & Group Therapy, Erica Atkins-Campbell, Lecrae, Tamela Mann, and Tasha Cobbs.
BET Awards 2020
The BET Awards 2020 were distinctive in several ways. Celebrating the 20th anniversary of the award show and the 40th anniversary of Black Entertainment Television, this year’s event was also the first to be held virtually due to the COVID-19 lockdowns. Franklin won the “Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award” for his single “Just for Me” from his 2019 album Long Live Love, marking his fourth win.
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BET Awards 2022
Franklin kicked off the BET Awards 2022 alongside Atlanta-based rapper Lil Baby with a dynamic rendition of their collaboration, “We Win.” Later in the evening, Franklin secured his sixth victory with his song “Strong God,” triumphing over fellow nominees BeBe Winans, CeCe Winans, H.E.R., Marvin Sapp, and Tamela Mann.
BET Awards 2023
Franklin won the Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award for the seventh time during the BET Awards 2023 for his collaboration with Maverick City on the track “Bless Me” the year before. This song, which Franklin wrote for their joint live album Kingdom Book One, debuted at number 19 on the US Hot Christian Songs chart and climbed to number eight on the Hot Gospel Songs chart.
Tune in to the BET Awards 2024 on Sunday, June 30 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on BET.
