VIBES WEB3 MUSIC COMPETITION, WEEK 31//I SMILE BY KIRK FRANKLIN (SONG COVER BY @BENII)

It’s another exciting week, and this time, we’re diving into the Y2K era—a time when music was bold, vibrant, and full of futuristic sounds.

The Y2K sound was all about blending digital production with smooth melodies, catchy hooks, and innovative beats. It took influences from R&B, hip-hop, pop, electronic, and even gospel, creating a unique style that defined the late ‘90s and early 2000s.

For my entry this week, I’ve decided to sing "I Smile" by Kirk Franklin.

Now, I know "I Smile" doesn’t technically belong to the Y2K era since it was released in 2011 as part of his album Hello Fear. But it still carries some of the same musical influences, like: R&B and hip-hop-inspired production,A catchy, uplifting hook, A powerful, inspirational message—just like the gospel hits from the early 2000s.

Also, Kirk Franklin was a huge part of the Y2K gospel sound. He revolutionized gospel music by blending it with contemporary R&B and hip-hop, making it accessible to both churchgoers and mainstream audiences.

Some of his biggest songs from that era include:
✔ "Hosanna," "Brighter Day," and "He Reigns" (The Rebirth of Kirk Franklin, 2002) – energetic, choir-driven gospel fused with modern beats
✔ "Looking for You" and "Imagine Me" (Hero, 2005) – fresh, contemporary gospel with an R&B twist
✔ "My Life, My Love, My All" (1999) and "Thank You" (2003) – deep, soulful worship songs with a modern feel

That’s why I chose to perform one of his songs today!

I also had a little fun freestyling, and honestly, I enjoyed every moment of it. I hope you enjoy it just as much as I did!

Let me know what you think!✨🎶

Here's the Link to My Post on X

Here's My Promotional video on x
https://x.com/benita_richard5/status/1901944527306256756?t=VGkL06cLHuXOHLDkKkJmxw&s=19