EXCLUSIVE: Erica Campbell Sounds Holy But Looks Hip In New Video "Help"

By Samantha Hunter

February 10, 2014 / 6:00 AM

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Erica Campbell is switching things up in a big way, and the change is paying off in more ways than one. After over a decade of creating great gospel music with her sister Tina Campbell as the dynamic duo Mary Mary, Erica is going for the goodness and greatness that change brings by embarking on a solo career. "A Little More Jesus," the first single off Erica's upcoming solo album, was released last summer and earned a Grammy nomination for Best Gospel Song - and also has had folks buzzing about what's next...And now the wait is over!

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Erica Campbell

Erica's new "next" is the album's title song "Help," and you'll be pleasantly surprised to see who she's enlisted to help her bring the song to life and bolster its powerful message. The "Help" video, directed by Bille Woodruff, is a clean and simple visual experience that features Erica, her nine-year-old daughter Krista, and Christian hip-hop artist on the rise, Lecrae. They are the only three people seen throughout the entire video - there's no storyline being played out, no extended cast, no bells and whistles. There's barely even any color, just a black backdrop.

Krista and Lecrae sound holy but look hip in their slick black attire punctuated with leather accents. Erica looks beautiful in her black cut-out outfit, which may raise the same eyebrows that were shocked by the fitted white turtleneck dress Erica rocked in a promo photo this December. But she looks angelic in her alternate takes, decked out in an off-white blouse with a jeweled neckline. Minus all the glitz and gloss, all that's left to shine is the actual song, and the powerful presence of the performers. Krista is clearly being groomed for gospel greatness and she looked in her element and quite comfortable in this video. Love, love, love it when she points a finger up to the sky as she's singing, like a true poised performer.

If you haven't checked out Lecrae, do so; his personal story is a powerful one and he's destined for great things as he embarks on his anointed musical mission. There's no shame in his game as he raps, "I confess, S.O.S., I need you daily." And Erica... my God can she sing! Folks are going to really see how talented she is with this new solo project due out in late March, and we're excited to hear what you have to say about that! Not only can she belt it, but she evokes deep emotions. Whether they're hers or yours, all feelings are brought to the surface thanks to The Erica Campbell Experience. We can't wait to experience the new album, but right now we'll more than make-do with this VH1 Soul exclusive video premiere of "Help." Enjoy, and check out the gallery to get behind the scenes at the video shoot!