Jeff Bates is no stranger to adversity. The 50 year old has battled many personal and professional struggles throughout his life, including overcoming a powerful drug addiction just as his country music career was taking off.

But now, after celebrating 13 years of sobriety, Bates is being honored for both his hard work and his focus on helping others overcome their own struggles with addiction. His home state of Mississippi has issued a resolution by the state's House of Representatives commending Bates for his numerous achievements.

“Whereas, a man with a life’s story that seemingly chronicles a classic country song,” says 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 married father of one says he is thrilled with the recognition.

“I am honored and humbled by this award,” Bates says. “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, who was adopted as the oldest of nine children, started his own Jeff Bates Ministries as a way to reach out to others who have a drug or alcohol addiction.

"I'm just a man with a ministry of sharing my experiences with others in hope that it helps them find their way to Jesus", he notes. "We started Jeff Bates Ministries just for that purpose, to keep it separate from my recording and performance work and to give those who would like me to come speak and share my testimony in their church or their area, a place to find us and connect and let us know their needs, as well as a place to share their experiences and prayer requests and hopefully find their own way to peace and happiness and a more abundant and prosperous life."

The singer-songwriter is back in the studio, working on a couple of new projects, including an album called 'Me & Conway' that will pay tribute to one of his favorite artists, Conway Twitty. Updates on the albums and upcoming concert dates will be posted here.

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