Kirk Franklin's "All Things" is a track that proves simplicity can be powerful. At first listen, it doesn't seem complex — but achieving that polished, radio-ready sound required careful attention to every production detail and dynamic. Here's how I recreated it from scratch using Pro Tools, Native Instruments libraries, and Sonic Academy synths, with multi-track stems available on Loop Community for worship teams and performers.
Starting with the Grid
As always, I began by setting up the grid in Pro Tools. This involved placing the original audio on a track, adjusting the tempo track, and aligning the start of the audio clip. Thanks to its constant tempo, this step was quick and straightforward.
Drums: Electronic Kit with Layered Hi-Hats
I started with the drums, as I usually do for instrumental recreations. The song features an electronic drum kit with a sharp and firm kick drum, claps replacing the snare, and multiple hi-hats. I used 3 or 4 different hi-hat samples, adding rhythmic variation with the repeat function for certain sections. Once the drum groove was solid, I recorded the harmonic instruments: bass, piano, guitar, and synthesizers. Having the drum foundation helps interpret dynamics more musically.
The Dual Basses: Electric + Synth
What stands out in "All Things" is the presence of two basses: an electric bass and a synth bass. They serve distinct purposes. The electric bass provides depth and body, while the synth bass adds a modern, spatial layer. Balancing these two elements is critical so they complement rather than compete.
For the electric bass, I used Prime Bass by Native Instruments — a versatile instrument packed with articulations that allowed me to capture the right pocket and feel.
For the synth bass, I chose ANA2 by Sonic Academy, which offers precise control for that modern, clean low-end sound.
The Guitar's Subtle Role
The guitar is subtle and appears prominently only in specific sections. Where it wasn't clearly audible in the original mix, I improvised to maintain the musical flow. To recreate the guitar, I used Electric Mint by Native Instruments, which delivers a clean, realistic tone that sits well in a gospel arrangement.
Piano: The Soul of the Track
For the piano, I turned to Noire by Native Instruments. It's one of my favorites because of its warm tone and detailed mechanical effects like pedal noise, hammer sounds, and string resonances. After learning the chord progressions and rhythm, it was pure joy to play. Kirk Franklin's genius truly shines in his Gospel arrangements — the way each chord connects to the next with intention and soul.
Synth Brass: Minimalist but Expressive
On first impression, it seemed like there were multiple synthesizers playing brass-like parts. However, after careful listening, I realized it's primarily a Synth Brass with a short attack and subtle pitch bends for expression. This minimalist approach actually enhances the overall dynamics of the track — less is more when every note has purpose.
Multi-Track Preview and Download
My recreation of "All Things" is available on Loop Community — the leading platform for worship multitracks. Whether you need stems for your choir, praise band, or solo performance, you'll find professionally balanced tracks ready for live worship, rehearsals, or studio recordings.
All Things
Watch Me Play the Instrumental
If you enjoyed this production breakdown, explore more of my Kirk Franklin remakes — including Love Theory, Do It Again, and F.A.V.O.R. — on my Music Hub. And if there's a gospel track you'd love to see recreated, let me know!
