|PIC1|Award-winning US gospel artist Kirk Franklin will be making a stop in London to perform at the Hammersmith Apollo this weekend, 26 November 2006, following a night's performance in the Netherlands.

The platinum-selling artist will be backed by a 22-piece band, as British gospel artists Roger Samuels, Witness and Watchman are set to warm up the stage for him.

Franklin has been keeping busy with his latest release "Songs For The Storm Volume 1", in remembrance of those affected by Hurricane Katrina, and features personally selected hit songs from his vast catalogue plus two previously unreleased tracks. There is also an added bonus with the multi-media CD where consumers can access the music video to "Imagine Me".

In addition, Franklin is participating in the Concord Records release, "Interpretations", celebrating the legendary Maurice White and the legacy of his music with Earth, Wind & Fire. "Interpretations: Celebrating the Music of Earth, Wind & Fire" includes Kirk Franklin's version of "September". When asked about Maurice White's musical impact, Franklin says "his music and writing was so 'feel good' that it had that motivation in it to get people together at a time when we needed good songs, good melodies and music that was ours."

Other interpretations featured on the CD include Meshell Ndegeocello, Lalah Hathaway, Bilal featuring the Roots, Mint Condition, Ledisi, Angie Stone, Chaka Khan, Dwele and Musiq Soulchild. Release is scheduled for 23 February 2007.

In other news, Franklin recently won an award for contemporary inspirational music at the American Music Awards.

"I know that a lot of people that say that they're Christians - you know, we don't always represent, and we don't always live it and we do sometimes some very stupid things, and you know we're not doing a good job," said Franklin, wearing blue jeans with a black velvet tuxedo jacket. "I want to make sure that when you see my life that it's a life that I'm gonna be proud of."