The original recording nominated for Song of the Year at the 41st Annual Grammy Awards, featured mainstream artists Mary J Blige, R Kelly and U2 frontman Bono.

For the 2021 remake, over one hundred Compassion children from more than twenty countries joined Kirk to sing the poignant words ...I am here you dont have to worry I can see your tears; Ill be there in a hurry when you call, friends are there to catch you when you fall, heres my shoulder you can lean on me.

A 2020 trip with Compassion to the Dominican Republic proved to be the catalyst that sparked the collaboration. After holding Compassion countrywide auditions during which the children sang Kirk songs, the global virtual choir was birthed.

When asked by Ugandan Compassion child Kakama how he felt after seeing the videos of the children singing his songs, Kirk said: I was very humbled I was speechless. I felt overwhelmed and I cant believe that God would let me see something so beautiful. To see all of these beautiful young people from all over the world singing, it meant the world to me Thank you, thank you very much.

Sharing about the collaboration on Instagram, Kirk posted : "After a week of bad news, heres some good! I dusted off an oldie but goodie featuring the Compassion Youth Choir. Hundreds of kids from over 20 countries, reminding the world you cant love Jesus if you have none for your neighbour. Thank you @compassion for this amazing opportunity to shine light in the darkness. Proceeds from the release will help @compassion continue doing ministry across the globe.#HAITIWEGOTYOU"

Listen to the song here

Watch the music video below:

Written by Akosua DF, Premier Gospel Presenter

Fans feverishly awaiting new music from Kirk Franklin were recently blessed with an inspirational remake of his 1998 smash hit Lean on Me.