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African American Christian
Sep 21, 20260 views2 min read

Kirk Franklin and Karen Clark Sheard Release New Single as Gospel Radio Charts Climb

Kirk Franklin and Karen Clark Sheard released a new single, "Thank You for Everything," which has been climbing gospel radio charts in September 2026. The collaboration marks another chapter in both artists' long careers in gospel music. The song is part of a wave of new gospel releases this fall.

Kirk Franklin and Karen Clark Sheard Release New Single as Gospel Radio Charts Climb
Source:Journal of Gospel Music

Gospel veterans Kirk Franklin and Karen Clark Sheard released a new single, "Thank You for Everything," which has been gaining traction on gospel radio charts in September 2026.

The collaboration brings together two of the most recognized names in gospel music. Franklin, a 14-time Grammy winner, has been a dominant force in gospel since the 1990s. Karen Clark Sheard is a member of the legendary Clark Sisters and has maintained a solo career spanning decades.

The single is part of a broader wave of new gospel music released this fall. Apple Music's New Gospel 2026 playlist has highlighted the track alongside releases from Anthony Brown and group therAPy, Israel Houghton, and DOE.

Franklin also signed a partnership with Uptown Records on the label's 40th anniversary, a deal that positions his music for wider mainstream distribution. The partnership was announced earlier in 2026 and reflects the growing crossover appeal of gospel music.

Karen Clark Sheard has remained active in both solo work and collaborations with the Clark Sisters. The group has seen renewed interest from younger audiences in recent years.

Gospel radio remains a key platform for reaching core audiences, and chart performance on stations across the country is closely watched by labels and artists. "Thank You for Everything" has been well received by programmers and listeners, according to reports from the Journal of Gospel Music.

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