State of Mississippi Honors Country Music Artist Jeff Bates
Bates’ career, struggles and life accomplishments commended with House Resolution
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (March 31, 2014) – Recently, Country Music artist, Jeff Bates was recognized with a Resolution put forth by the State of Mississippi’s House of Representatives. The resolution commended Jeffery Wayne “Jeff” Bates
for his contributions and success in Country Music, for having
confronted and overcome adversity, and for his dedication to his family,
wife Kelly Vaughn and daughter Brianna.
“Whereas, a man with a life’s story that seemingly chronicles a
classic country song,” listed the Resolution, “…Jeff rebounded with an
undeniable affirmation of self and a renewed awareness of purpose to
once again seize the reins of destiny which were innately embedded in
the core of his musicality.”
The resolution went on to recognize Bates’ ongoing charity work and
upcoming endeavors and concluded “Mr. Bates’ stature and incredible
success, whose talent, life’s story and benevolences have bestowed great
pride and integrity upon the great State of Mississippi.”
Bates was raised in Bunker Hill, Miss., adopted as
the eldest of nine children by sharecropping parents. After moving to
Nashville to chase his dreams, he landed a publishing deal with Warner-Chappell. However,
in 2001, Bates’ battle with drugs and his addiction landed him in jail
putting an end, if only for a while, to his music career.
After being released, Bates co-wrote Tracy Lawrence’s 2002 single, “What a Memory,” putting him well on the path to success. In 2003, Bates inked his first record deal with RCA Records and released his debut album Rainbow Man that produced a top-ten single, “The Love Song.” Three more albums would follow, including Leave the Light On (RCA), his self-titled project and One Day Closer (Black River), culminating in seven top-40 singles and a No. 1 Christian country single.
“I am honored and humbled by this award,” stated Bates. “I wish my
Mama and Daddy were still here to physically see and share in this
occasion. However I trust that they are with our Lord and Savior Jesus
Christ in Heaven, smiling down with the pride only Parents can feel!”
Bates continued “I would like to personally extend thanks to Aaron Williams; Rep. Charles Busby; District 111, Phillip Gunn; Speaker of The House, Rep. C. Scott Bounds; District 44, Senator Giles K. Ward; District 18, Senator Lydia Chassaniol; District 14, Lieutenant Governor Tate Reeves; and last but definitely not least my friend, brother, and mentor Fred Robinson and his wife Dianne for your selfless efforts on my behalf in making this momentous event in my life happen!”
Bates currently celebrates 13 years of sobriety. He continues the outreach of Jeff Bates Ministries
and dedicates his life to what he considers “the most important and
ultimate accomplishment,” the job of being a full-time father.
Additionally, Bates is back in the studio working on a variety of
projects, including the highly-anticipated album Me & Conway (which will feature Twitty classics as well as a mix of original tunes) and The Songwriter Series, both due out later this year. Bates is also assisting up-and-coming artists as a manager and has recently built Bates Shop Studios.