Nigerian Afrobeats artiste Davido has teamed up with American gospel musician Kirk Franklin on a new track titled Hope in You, which is set for release on Friday, October 30, 2026.
The song will be included in Franklin’s upcoming 14-track album, “I Am What I Am”, an innovative project combining gospel with contemporary musical influences.
Davido and Franklin first previewed the collaboration during an album listening event held in Atlanta, United States, on October 12 2026. Davido reportedly performed his verse and joined the choir during the presentation.
For longtime followers of Franklin’s work, the fusion is familiar. Over the years, he has blended gospel with hip-hop, R&B and pop, from the God’s Property era to his guest appearance on Kanye West’s Ultralight Beam.
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What makes the project particularly notable is its diverse lineup. In addition to Davido, Franklin’s album features GloRilla, Jelly Roll and Tobe Nwigwe-artists from distinct musical backgrounds who rarely appear on the same gospel project.
The collaboration brings together Afrobeats and contemporary gospel, allowing both Davido and Franklin to showcase their unique styles. Davido’s presence also gives the album a strong West African influence that extends beyond a single guest appearance.
For Davido, the collaboration represents a fresh kind of crossover. The Lagos-born star has spent years taking Afrobeats to global stages and international charts, with songs like Fall and Unavailable reaching audiences well beyond Nigeria.
Working with one of gospel music’s most recognizable figures could introduce him to American church audiences who may not otherwise listen to Afrobeats. Fans may interpret the collaboration in different ways.
Afrobeats listeners could view it as Davido exploring unfamiliar territory and revealing a side of his artistry that rarely appears on his own albums.
Meanwhile, longtime gospel fans-some of whom have questioned Franklin’s secular collaborations-may renew the debate over how much gospel can incorporate outside influences while retaining its identity.
