Jeff and Kelly BatesCongratulations are in order for Jeff Bates and his wife, Kelly, who welcomed their first child on Monday (April 12). Brianna Nadine Bates made her entrance into the world two and a half weeks early at Nashville's Baptist Hospital at 11:11 PM, weighing 6 pounds, 5 ounces and measuring 19 1/2 inches long.

"She is perfect in every way," Jeff tells The Boot. "When I held her the first time I cried! I looked down at her and told her, 'Baby girl, all your daddy's dreams have just come true! So I guess from now on I'll just dream for you!'

"Sometimes I just look at her and the tears start pouring!" the singer continues. "I've never had moments like those where I am overcome with such strong feelings of pure love and blessedness in my entire life. Neither have I ever felt so much awe for Kelly as I do after watching her give birth to our child. She's such a strong woman and is an incredible mother!"

Jeff, best known for his hits 'Long Slow Kisses' and 'The Love Song,' is currently working on new music for an upcoming project. He recently parked the tour bus after a long stint on the Honky Tonk Tailgate Party tour, alongside buddies Trent Willmon and Mark Wills.

Congrats to the new parents!

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