Long Live Love is the ninth studio album from
Kirk Franklin -- the first full-length from the Grammy-winning songwriter, producer, and choir director since Losing My Religion (2015). Its "Love Theory" hit the top of the gospel chart before release, and is one of a few celebratory numbers that maintain
Franklin's rooting in classic R&B spanning the '60s through the early-'80s. Between those songs and the reflective ballads,
Franklin and company -- including the likes of
Isaac Carree,
Amber Bullock, and Anaysha Figueroa-Cooper -- cover racism, idolatry, and parental responsibility, as well as perseverance and gratitude. It's all neatly tied together on this succinct return. ~ Andy Kellman