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Kirk Franklin 2 Confirmed: Fetty P Franklin & DaBaby Set For Sequel — Melanin News | Melanin
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Kirk Franklin 2 Confirmed: Fetty P Franklin & DaBaby Set For SequelHip-Hop

Kirk Franklin 2 Confirmed: Fetty P Franklin & DaBaby Set For Sequel

5d ago

Charlotte’s own Fetty P Franklin has officially confirmed that he and DaBaby are cooking up a follow-up to their acclaimed joint EP. Titled "Kirk Franklin 2," the new project signals a continuation of a powerful collaboration that has significantly boosted Franklin’s journey in the music world.

The news dropped during Franklin’s appearance on HOT 97’s Mornings with Mero on October 14, 2026. While discussing the evolution of his partnership with DaBaby, which blossomed from a single guest verse into a full-blown EP and shared stages, Franklin let it be known that fans can expect more from the duo. Although no official release date has been shared, the announcement has already ignited anticipation for what these two Charlotte heavyweights will deliver next.

Centennial (miniseries)
Centennial (miniseries) Source

The original "Kirk Franklin" EP, a seven-track project, hit the streets on December 26, 2025. Its title, a clever fusion of DaBaby’s surname, Kirk, and Franklin’s stage name, quickly resonated with fans. The EP featured standout tracks like "Close Friends" and "Money Blue" and wasted no time making its mark, climbing to number nine on Apple Music’s Rap Album chart just two days after its release on December 28, 2025.

The roots of this dynamic partnership trace back to the track "SDA," featured on Franklin’s 2025 album, *FRANK*. The two artists first linked up on the set of the "SDA" music video, and DaBaby reportedly laid down his verse only days before *FRANK* officially dropped. That initial studio connection sparked deeper conversations, leading to their first joint project being conceived and recorded in a swift two sessions, with both rappers exchanging verses late into the night.

Fetty P Franklin, a Charlotte native, has a story that speaks to perseverance. Exposed to street life early on, he began recording music at 16, influenced by artists like Snoop Dogg and his uncle. For years, music was an expensive passion, with Franklin independently releasing tracks since 2018, funding sessions, videos, and travel with little financial return. His career took a decisive turn in 2025 when, at 35, he committed to music full-time. His *FRANK* album, released on October 9 or 10, 2025, proved to be a game-changer. The track "Jimmy N Johnny" garnered significant attention, eventually catching DaBaby’s ear. Franklin has spoken openly about leaving his past behind, including facing serious prison time, to fully pursue his musical aspirations, developing a distinctive freestyle and punch-in recording style along the way.

DaBaby
DaBaby Source

DaBaby’s support extended beyond the studio. He included Franklin in the lineup for his Be More Grateful Fest, a major hometown event held in Concord, North Carolina, on June 13, 2026. Headlined by DaBaby himself and 50 Cent, the festival also featured hip-hop legends like Busta Rhymes, Boosie Badazz, and Webbie, offering a massive platform for the rising Charlotte artist. Franklin has credited touring with DaBaby as a crucial learning experience, teaching him how to command crowds beyond his local Charlotte following.

In a June 2026 interview with the Charlotte Observer, Franklin shared his gratitude, describing DaBaby’s assistance as providing "another ladder right there, and another one" during times when his self-built path seemed uncertain. This support came after years of Franklin questioning the financial feasibility of his music career, highlighting the profound impact of strategic partnerships in a competitive industry.

Franklin’s continued hustle includes other recent projects like the album *Bet The Bank On Frank*, which dropped on May 29, 2026, and features DaBaby on the track "BRINKS." He also released *The Frank Play* with producer Bandplay on September 18, 2026. Frequent guest appearances on podcasts and interviews throughout 2026 have seen Franklin discussing his journey, the music business, and the importance of authenticity. The ongoing collaboration with an established artist like DaBaby not only underscores the value of mentorship but also showcases how powerful alliances can propel artists from regional scenes like Charlotte onto the national stage. Fans are now eagerly awaiting the next chapter in this impactful musical partnership, watching closely for more details on what "Kirk Franklin 2" will bring to the culture.