Legendary gospel group Maverick City Music and 16-time Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter and producer Kirk Franklin took the stage for a gospel performance that was sure to lift viewers’ spirits during these challenging times.

Up first, the collective performed their latest single, “Kingdom,” from their new album Kingdom Book One—an idea born in an effort to bring attention to mass incarceration and its many injustices. They followed it up with Franklin’s classic 1995 hit single “Melodies from Heaven.”

Both acts were nominated for the “Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel / Inspiration Award,” which ultimately went to Franklin and rapper Lil Baby for their recent song, “We Win.” The duo was up against several great musicians, including Marvin Sapp, Kanye West, Kelly Price, Fred Hammond, H.E.R. & Tauren Wells, and Elevation Worship & Maverick City Music.

While accepting his award, Franklin called on the older generation to pass their batons while handing his gospel crown to collaborator Maverick City Music dubbing them the next generation of gospel music.

The BET Awards 2022 was hosted by Academy Award-nominated actress, writer, and producer Taraji P. Henson live from the Microsoft Theater in Los Angles.