Kingdom Tour recap
Flashback - Gospel music icon Kirk Franklin, alongside the American contemporary worship ensemble Maverick City Music, achieved a sold-out event at Coastal Credit Union this past weekend as part of their highly anticipated summer Kingdom Tour, which spans thirty-seven dates. The tour commenced in Miami, Orlando, Tampa, and Atlanta, where the group set a record for the highest gate gross amount. Over 50,000 fans, including more than 15,000 in Atlanta alone, gathered to experience the live performance of music from their upcoming album, Kingdom Book 1. This event marks the highest attendance record for any Christian music or Gospel tour to date.
Individuals from across North Carolina convened for an evening of worship and community. The concert began with a performance by Housefires, a worship band hailing from Atlanta, Georgia. During their rendition of the popular single “Good Good Father,” it was a remarkable sight to witness attendees from diverse backgrounds united in focused prayer and worship. Following Housefires, Grammy Award-winning gospel artist Jonathan McReynolds took the stage, delivering a selection of his popular tracks, including “I’m Not Lucky, I’m Loved,” “Movin On,” and “Cycles.”
After McReynolds' performance, the anticipation in the park was palpable as attendees eagerly awaited the arrival of Maverick City and Kirk Franklin. As Kirk Franklin stepped onto the stage, he energized the crowd with his hit song “Revolution,” followed by “Love Theory.” The area was filled to capacity, with standing room only from the stage to the entrance of the park grounds. The crew then transformed the stage into a church-like setting, bringing out pews and dimming the lights to enhance the worship experience. A soothing atmosphere enveloped the audience as Kirk Franklin performed a selection of his popular songs from the late 1990s. The attendees enthusiastically joined him in singing “Now Behold the Lamb,” “Silver and Gold,” and “Lean On Me.” In the latter part of the concert, Chandler Moore from Maverick City Music captivated the audience with their renowned song, “Jireh,” followed by Naomi Raine performing “Promises” and “Reckless Love.” To conclude the event, Kirk Franklin led the crowd in a powerful rendition of “Melodies From Heaven,” before finishing with “Smile” from his twelfth studio album, Hello Fear.