A Guide to Warryn Campbell

Started with the teaching of DJ Quik and Death Row to gospel legends like Mary Mary; here’s a guide to Baby Dubb.

Warryn Campbell launched his prolific music career as a session musician and producer, collaborating with West Coast hip-hop legend DJ Quik on the album Safe + Sound. This early experience proved formative, honing his production skills and fueling his creative drive.

Campbell’s major breakthrough occurred with the formation of the gospel duo Mary Mary, comprised of sisters Erica and Tina Atkins. He played a pivotal role in crafting their signature sound—a seamless fusion of contemporary R&B and traditional gospel elements. The success of Mary Mary catapulted Campbell to industry recognition, highlighting his ability to translate gospel music for a mainstream audience.

Building on this recognition, Campbell expanded his collaborative reach, working with diverse artists. His production and songwriting credits span hip-hop heavyweights like Kanye West, Missy Elliott, and Killer Mike, R&B powerhouses Alicia Keys, Brandy, and Kelly Price, and gospel luminaries including Yolanda Adams, Kierra Sheard, and Dorinda Clark-Cole. This demonstrates Campbell’s remarkable versatility and ability to adapt his sound to complement various artistic styles.

Throughout his career, Campbell has solidified his position as a prominent figure in the worlds of gospel, R&B, and hip-hop. Furthermore, he has fostered the next generation of talent by founding his record label, My Block Inc. Campbell’s journey from session musician to successful producer and label head underscores his unwavering dedication to his craft, highlighting his profound impact on the music industry.

Thankful — Mary Mary

This debut explodes with the raw energy and soulful chemistry between sisters Erica and Tina Campbell. Warryn’s production captures their youthful spirit, highlighting their undeniable vocal synergy with a dynamic blend of contemporary R&B influences and traditional gospel ardor. Expect high-octane rhythms, rich harmonies, and soaring melodies that celebrate faith, resilience, and the sheer joy of musical expression with an undeniably infectious quality.

Incredible — Mary Mary

Mary Mary’s evolution continues with Warryn’s adventurous production, leading to a bolder musical exploration. Intricate vocal arrangements meet a fusion of funk and urban beats, expanding the boundaries of contemporary gospel while maintaining the heart of their message. The lyrical focus delves deeper, shifting towards introspective vulnerability while exploring themes of spiritual trials and ultimately finding triumph with a raw honesty that resonates.

The Soul Seekers — Soul Seekers

Warryn steps outside the Mary Mary sound, showcasing his versatility in forming this soulful quartet. Classic gospel dominates the experience, focusing on lush harmonies, blues-infused melodies, and timeless themes of redemption that connect directly to the genre’s roots. The production leans towards a traditional feel with fresh arrangements and heartfelt quartet singing, highlighting Warryn’s respect for the history of gospel music while offering a rejuvenating experience.

Mary Mary — Mary Mary

This self-titled outing signifies a turning point, reflecting a more polished and pop-leaning sensibility in Warryn’s production. The harmonies of Erica and Tina remain unmatched, adapting to a brighter, even more radio-friendly sonic landscape. It’s a testament to Warryn’s ability to seamlessly bridge gospel with mainstream appeal, ensuring the message of hope and inspiration reaches a broader audience.

Reflections — Jason Champion

Warryn shifts gears with this album, exploring a contemplative side of gospel music with poignant piano ballads and soaring orchestral arrangements complementing Jason Champion’s voice, rich with emotive depth. Lyrics delve into themes of doubt, healing, and the unending grace of God with a sense of vulnerability and introspection. The production focuses on creating a space for reflection and a deep connection with the spirit of the songs.

The Sound — Mary Mary

Warryn pushes the sonic envelope boldly, incorporating elements of hip-hop, trap, electronic music, and even hints of rock. The result is a dynamic and eclectic album that challenges traditional gospel boundaries, showcasing fearless innovation and Mary Mary’s artistic adaptability.  While divisive for some, it speaks to Warryn’s musical curiosity and desire to keep pushing boundaries within the gospel landscape.

Soul Seekers II — Soul Seekers

With driving percussion and anthemic choruses, this second collection sees the quartet venturing confidently into contemporary worship territory. Warryn’s production embraces modern instrumentation suitable for a revitalized church experience full of energy. The Soul Seekers deliver a message of unity and hope with a sound crafted to uplift contemporary audiences and inspire congregational participation.

Something Big — Mary Mary

Here, Warryn dials back the experimentation slightly, offering a more accessible blend of soulful pop and inspirational lyrics. The album boasts instantly memorable melodies, soaring hooks, and plenty of hand-clapping rhythms designed to ensure its broad reach and radio appeal. It solidifies Mary Mary’s crossover success without sacrificing their gospel core message, maintaining their signature spiritual energy.

Kelly — Kelly Price

Warryn crafts a rich soundscape that blends soulful R&B with traditional gospel elements, showcasing Kelly Price’s powerhouse vocals and dynamic range. Songs of heartbreak and resilience take center stage, delivered with raw emotion and a vulnerability balanced by spiritual strength. Expect big ballads, blues-infused melodies, and moments of joyous praise, highlighting Kelly Price’s artistry and ability to bridge secular and gospel sounds seamlessly.

Help — Erica Campbell

Warryn creates a soundscape perfectly tailored to Erica Campbell’s powerful voice and dynamic solo presence. Soulful R&B drives the project, featuring stirring ballads, funky grooves, and uplifting affirmations that showcase her unique style. It’s a deeply personal project that establishes her as a force outside of the Mary Mary duo, highlighting her individuality and her continued devotion to delivering a powerful spiritual message.

Think About These Things — Charles Jenkins

Warryn masterfully blends traditional gospel with contemporary R&B and hip-hop elements, creating a fresh and energetic soundscape for Charles Jenkins’ powerful vocals. Uplifting anthems and celebratory praise songs dominate the album, showcasing Jenkins’ charisma and contagious enthusiasm. Expect infectious melodies, driving rhythms, and a joyful spirit celebrating faith and community.

The Other Side — The Walls Group

Warryn showcases his versatility with this young quartet, pushing them toward a more pop-driven sound infused with urban energy. The Walls Group’s vocal harmonies remain impeccable, but the production incorporates electronic flourishes and driving beats. Themes of overcoming adversity and unwavering faith resonate with a youthful audience, offering a vibrant contemporary take on gospel music.

Power — Jason McGee & The Choir

The classic choral gospel takes center stage, focusing on soaring melodies and dynamic vocal arrangements suited to Jason McGee and his powerful choir. Warryn’s production emphasizes live worship’s raw energy, capturing the emotive spirit of traditional church services. This album attests to the enduring power of collective voices in praise, with a timeless quality that resonates with gospel purists.

Brand New — Lena Byrd Miles

Warryn creates a soundscape that blends soulful R&B with traditional gospel elements, highlighting Lena Byrd Miles’ rich and expressive voice. Songs of redemption and spiritual renewal take center stage, delivered with heartfelt conviction and emotional depth. Expect a dynamic range with moments of intimate balladry and joyous, high-energy anthems showcasing Lena’s versatility.

Four Walls — The Walls Group

This album sees The Walls Group continue evolving towards a more mature sound, embracing elements of R&B and soul to create a soulful and introspective listening experience. Warryn’s production finds a balance between the group’s youthful energy and a newfound emotional depth explored through themes of personal struggles and unwavering faith. It maintains their signature tight harmonies and offers a nuanced perspective on their spiritual journey.

MICHAEL — Killer Mike

In a surprising turn, Warryn steps outside the boundaries of traditional gospel to craft a sound for the Grammy-award-winning Killer Mike’s rap album that’s gritty and soulful. Elements of gospel are subtly woven into No I.D.’s production with choir samples, Campbell’s organ flourishing, and a sense of urgency. This unique collaboration pushes both artists beyond their comfort zones, resulting in a raw and thought-provoking exploration of social justice through the lens of spirituality.

I Love You — Erica Campbell

Warryn creates a warm, intimate sonic space to showcase Erica Campbell’s soulful voice and deeply personal lyrics. Heartfelt ballads and mid-tempo R&B tracks dominate, exploring themes of love, gratitude, and unwavering faith with a sense of vulnerability. Her gospel roots remain evident, but the album leans towards a smoother, more contemporary sound focused on individual reflection and a strong message of self-acceptance.