Young Rwandans collaborate with Kirk Franklin on the remix of “Lean on Me”

Six young Rwanda musicians have been part of a team that collaborated with Grammy-winning American artiste Kirk Franklin to record a remix version of the “Lean on Me” song.

The youngsters are part of Compassion International’s child development program.

They include Enock and Lisa (both aged 14), 16-year old duo Benjamin and Benitha as well as Donatha and Janvier (17 years each).

They were chosen to join their counterparts from 24 other countries to participate in the Compassion Youth Choir.

For the past several months, Franklin has been working with youth from all 25 countries in Compassion’s child development program. Through virtual auditions and rehearsals, the Compassion Youth Choir, made up of more than 120 youth, ages 11-19, worked with the artist to record the song, which was originally released in 1998.

“It was an honor working with so many young, talented and gifted kids from across the globe!” Franklin emphasized, “I’m grateful to the team at Compassion International for giving me the opportunity to serve in this capacity.”

16-year old Donatha—one of the choir member from Rwanda said:

“Words are poor to express how happy and blessed I am for the privilege to sing with Kirk Franklin.”

During the virtual sessions, Franklin provided vocal coaching, answered questions about his life and musical career, and even taught the group some dance moves.

The music video for the re-release of “Lean on Me,” featuring the Compassion Youth Choir, can be seen at compassion.com/kirkfranklin or on YouTube.

Franklin concludes, “It’s unbelievable that a song like this still resonates with so many people. I pray this version provides a little hope for the people across the globe.”

Fo Yo Soul/RCA Records and Franklin will donate proceeds from the sales and streams of the song to Compassion. Click here to download or stream “Lean on Me” featuring the Compassion Youth Choir.