Kirk Franklin – Able

One word can carry a whole sermon. Able points to the God who is capable of the impossible, the one believers call on when the situation looks closed. It can also point to the person singing, saying that despite everything, they still have strength to stand. The title leaves both readings open, which is a good way to give a song room to touch people in different places.

Many Nigerians grew up singing songs built on the same thought, in crusade grounds, morning devotions and Sunday choirs. There is a comfort in hearing a short, direct statement of belief, since it does not need explanation. It is the kind of line a congregation can repeat together with their eyes closed and their hands raised.

Since this one has no featured artist, the focus falls fully on Kirk Franklin himself, and I will not describe what the record sounds like without being able to vouch for the details. A solo gospel statement like this tends to work best in moments of quiet.

Play it before a big decision, an interview or an uncertain morning, when you need one word to remind you that you are not finished yet.

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