“Kirk Franklin” is a sick-ass title for an album.

It’s worth saying out loud: DaBaby has been working his ass off. Whether people love him or not, he’s been consistently dropping music and pairing it with solid visuals, keeping his foot on the gas in a way that deserves acknowledgment. Lately, he’s also leaned fully into his North Carolina roots, popping up at Panthers and Hornets games and re-centering himself in the place that shaped him.

His latest move is a seven-track collaborative project with fellow North Carolina rapper Fetty P titled KIRK FRANKLIN. The name is a clear nod to the gospel legend while also playing off both artists’ real names, setting the tone for a project that blends irony, grit, and intent. Across the tape, the two rap with their heads down, locked in and focused, talking money, survival, power, and the rough edges of their come-ups.

Sonically, the project thrives on variety. There’s a strong mix of hard Southern production, smooth and soulful beats, and aggressive trap energy that keeps things moving. The chemistry feels natural, with both rappers matching each other’s intensity and passion throughout.

At its core, KIRK FRANKLIN is for fans of cold, unapologetic rap. It’s direct, energetic, and confident — the kind of project that reminds you DaBaby still knows how to lock in and deliver when he wants to.

STREAM

SONG BY SONG RATING

*1. ALLERGIC TO POLLEN (4/5)

*2. CLOSE FRIENDS (4/5)

*3. HUSTLIN’ GRINDIN’ HUSTLIN’ (4.5/5)

4. LEPRECHAUN (3.5/5)

*5. WHERE WOULD I BE (4/5)

6. PROOF IN THE PUDDIN’ (3.5/5)

*7. MONEY BLUE (4/5)

*Top 5 Tracks

RGM GRADE

(79%)

Quincy

Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.