Mary Mary is an influential American urban contemporary gospel duo formed in 1998, consisting of sisters Erica Atkins-Campbell and Trecina Atkins-Campbell. The duo's name draws inspiration from two prominent biblical figures: Mary, the mother of Jesus, and Mary Magdalene. Known for their unique blend of gospel with elements of soul, hip-hop, funk, and jazz, Mary Mary has significantly expanded the reach of urban contemporary gospel music, particularly throughout the 2000s.

Born and raised in Inglewood, California, Erica and Trecina grew up in a musical family, which laid the groundwork for their future careers. They began singing together in church and honed their skills, eventually catching the attention of producers and record labels. Their debut album, "Thankful," released in 2000, marked a turning point in their careers, featuring the breakthrough hit "Shackles (Praise You)." The song resonated with audiences and became a staple in contemporary gospel music, earning the duo their first Grammy Award nomination.

Following the success of their debut, Mary Mary's second album, "Incredible," released in 2002, topped the Top Gospel Albums chart and included hits that solidified their standing in the gospel music community. Their self-titled third album, "Mary Mary," came in 2005 and produced several number-one gospel hits. That same year, the sisters showcased their talent with a performance at the White House, further elevating their profile as gospel artists.

The duo continued to build on their success with their fourth studio album, "The Sound," released in 2008. This album featured popular tracks like "Get Up" and "God in Me," both of which received significant airplay and acclaim. In 2011, they released "Something Big," followed by the compilation album "Go Get It" in 2012, which included both new music and previously released hits. After a successful run in the music industry, Mary Mary took a hiatus from recording but remained active in various projects.

In 2012, Mary Mary ventured into reality television with the premiere of their series, also titled Mary Mary, on WE tv. The show provided fans with an intimate look at their lives, showcasing their careers, family dynamics, and the challenges they faced in balancing personal and professional commitments. Throughout their career, Mary Mary has been nominated for eleven Grammy Awards, winning four, including Best Gospel Performance and Best Contemporary Soul Gospel Album. Their contributions to gospel music continue to inspire many, marking them as a significant force in the genre.

As of now, Erica Atkins-Campbell and Trecina Atkins-Campbell remain respected figures in the music industry, continuing to influence new generations of artists and fans alike. Their dedication to their craft and their faith has allowed them to leave a lasting legacy in contemporary gospel music.