Personnel: Kirk Franklin (vocals, rap vocals, keyboards); Dorinda Clark-Cole, J. Moss, African Children's Choir, Stevie Wonder, Tye Tribbett (vocals); Doc Powell, Todd Parsnow (guitars); Matt Butler (cello); Paulie Cerra (saxophone); Dave Monsch (baritone saxophone); Lee Thornburg, Jamie Hovorka (trumpet); Humberto Ruiz (trombone); Shaun Martin (keyboards, drums); Jerome Harmon (keyboards); Braylon Lacy (electric bass); Terri Baker (drums); Andre Harris, Sheila E., Vidal Davis (percussion).
Though testimonies of faith and questions of morality are still at the heart of Kirk Franklin's message, 2005's HERO represents something of a musical departure for the gospel superstar. Recorded with a full orchestra--complete with lush strings and driving horns--HERO is one of Franklin's most musically ambitious outings.
Featuring guest appearances by Stevie Wonder ("Why"), Dorinda Clark-Cole ("Hero"), and Yolanda Adams ("Afterwhile"), not to mention a song that utilizes a Tears for Fears sample ( "Let It Go"), the album offers plenty of variety, and a few surprises, in addition to its large-scale arrangements. Franklin manages to integrate these new elements perfectly into the celebratory and healing music on which he's built his career.