Whatcha Lookin' 4 cover

Released 16 years ago this October

Whatcha Lookin' 4

Kirk Franklin · 2010

78 min · 15 tracks · gospel music

An uplifting blend of contemporary gospel infused with vibrant melodies and heartfelt lyrics that resonate with spiritual fervor.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Whatcha Lookin' 4 — This title track captures the essence of the album, blending energetic rhythms with a call for spiritual introspection, effectively setting the tone for the entire project.
  • →
    Melodies From Heaven — This track reimagines Franklin's earlier hit, intertwining nostalgia with fresh arrangements that showcase his vocal prowess and lyrical depth, making it a standout moment on the album.
  • →
    Mama's Song — A deeply personal tribute to Franklin's mother, this song combines heartfelt lyrics with soulful instrumentation, highlighting themes of love and gratitude which resonate throughout his career.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

58 /100
Treeline
Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The album blends energetic and reflective tracks, showcasing Franklin's strong songwriting and production skills.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album features upbeat tracks that maintain a high energy level, while the second half shifts to more reflective and slower songs.
  • Several tracks incorporate call-and-response elements, inviting listener participation and enhancing the communal aspect of worship.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • uplifting anthems for celebration
  • wave-like dynamics with peaks
  • reflective moments of gratitude
  • communal sing-along experiences
  • soulful reflections on faith

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • avoid longer, cohesive pieces

Where this album fits

Career context
By the time 'Whatcha Lookin' 4' was released in 2010, Kirk Franklin had already established himself as a leading figure in contemporary gospel music, following his breakthrough album 'God's Property' in 1997. This album marked a significant return after a three-year hiatus since his previous release, 'The Fight of My Life,' showcasing his evolved sound and artistic maturity.
Stylistic neighbors
Tye Tribbett· Fred Hammond· Donnie McClurkin

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Savior More Than Life 6:44
  • 2 Whatcha Lookin' 4 4:25
  • 3 Melodies From Heaven 4:34
  • 4 Conquerors 8:24
  • 5 Don't Take Your Joy Away 6:35
  • 6 When I Think About Jesus 1:38
  • 7 Mama's Song 4:16
  • 8 Jesus Paid It All 5:04
  • 9 I Love You Jesus 7:25
  • 10 Washed Away 5:20
  • 11 Where the Spirit Is 4:03
  • 12 Let Me Touch You 5:26
  • 13 Anything 4 U 5:08
  • 14 Whatcha Lookin' 4 (remix) 4:36
  • 15 Melodies From Heaven (skate remix) 4:18

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata