Congratulations to Kirk Franklin, whose new single “Wanna Be Happy” debuted atopBillboard‘s Hot Gospel Songs Chart. Selling nearly 12,000 units in its first week, “Wanna Be Happy?” becomes the best first-week digital single in gospel sales history.

The single also debuts at #1 on Billboard’s Gospel Digital Songs Chart and #1 on Billboard’s Christian/Gospel Digital Songs Chart.

Ironically, Franklin held the previous record with his single “I Smile”, which sold 11,008 units in its first week. That single was the lead track from his chart-topping Gold album Hello Fear.

“This is great news for both Kirk Franklin and the entire gospel genre,” said Mark Michel, VP of Sales,RCA Inspiration. “We haven’t seen first week numbers like this in gospel since his last record four years ago. We’re all very excited about this single and his forthcoming album.”

Franklin debuted the single nationally on the Steve Harvey Morning Show and followed that with a live performance on the Season 8 finale of BET Sunday Best. In its first week at Gospel radio, the single debuted at #17 on the Billboard Gospel Airplay Chart, another notable feat.

Kirk Franklin has crafted a song that once again resonates with the masses, setting the stage for what he’s calling his “most intentional work” yet. His upcoming project, which is his 11th to date, is scheduled for release this November.

“Wanna Be Happy?” is now available everywhere music is sold digitally.

Kirk Franklin: Wanna Be Happy?