Country music hitmaker Jeff Bates is set to release his long-awaited first gospel album, Hymns From the Church in the Wildwood, arriving May 1 via Tall Grass Records. The project marks a deeply personal milestone for Bates, whose journey of faith, redemption, and gratitude is woven into every note.

This spring also marks a powerful anniversary in Bates’ life — 25 years of sobriety after overcoming methamphetamine addiction and a period of incarceration that nearly derailed his future. Through faith and perseverance, Bates rebuilt his life, ultimately launching a successful country music career that produced hits like “The Love Song,” “Long, Slow Kisses,” and “I Wanna Make You Cry.” He credits the Lord for his transformation, making this gospel album both a celebration and a testimony of the faith that carried him through.

“Twenty-five years clean and sober,” notes Bates. “I know, without a shadow of a doubt, that there is no way I could have ever stayed clean without God! So, above all, I hope and pray that this album of hymns brings my Heavenly Father all the honor and all the glory He so richly deserves!”

Jeff Bates 2001 Mugshot |  Photo Credit: Tennessee Department of Corrections

Inspired by the hymns of his childhood and the faith that guided him out of darkness, Hymns From the Church in the Wildwood reflects the foundation that shaped both the man and the artist. The album’s title echoes not only one of the most beloved songs in the collection, but also the spiritual home he found again—marking 25 years of sobriety and a life restored.

“When I was a small boy my Mama would sing old gospel hymns to me that she learned as a little girl in church,” shares Bates. “I’ve never forgotten her voice, her melodies, nor the reverence and love she held in her heart for these songs. I have dreamed of sharing these songs with you all for a long, long time.”

Produced with heartfelt authenticity and reverence, the album features timeless gospel standards that have inspired generations.

“Thanks to my friend and brother Daniel ‘Stubbs’ Lucus, and his love for the same music that, like me, he grew up hearing, that dream has now become a reality,” adds Bates. ‘We are both honored and blessed to present to you these Hymns From The Church In The Wildwood, and we hope you enjoy them as much as we do!”

With Hymns From the Church in the Wildwood, Jeff Bates comes full circle—honoring the songs of his youth, the faith that saved his life, and celebrating 25 years of sobriety with a message of hope, redemption, and grace.

Pre-order / pre-save the album HERE.

Hymns From the Church in the Wildwood Track Listing:
1. Sweet Beulah Land
2. The Church in the Wildwood
3. Precious Memories
4. How Great Thou Art
5. Shall We Gather at the River
6. Peace In the Valley
7. Were You There (When They Crucified My Lord)
8. Just As I Am
9. Have a Little Talk with Jesus
10. Old Rugged Cross
11. Amazing Grace
12. When The Roll Is Called Up Yonder 

About Jeff Bates
Signed to RCA Records in late 2002, Jeff Bates released his debut album, Rainbow Man, in May 2003. A second album, Leave The Light On, was released in 2005 on RCA. The album was followed by Jeff Bates in 2008 on the independent Black River Entertainment. Bates’ two RCA albums accounted for seven chart singles on the Billboard country charts, of which three reached the Top 40: “The Love Song,” “I Wanna Make You Cry” and “Long, Slow Kisses.”  Bates has been active in his works of compassion, collecting for organizations such as Toys for Tots and others. In 2005, a concert in Hattiesburg, Mississippi raised $25,000 for Hurricane Katrina relief in his home area.

For more information, visit jeffbates.net.

Jeff Bates | Photo Credit: Marc Billingsly

countryNew ReleasesPress ReleaseHYMS FROM T HE CHURCH IN THE WOLDWOOD,Jeff Bates,Tall Grass Records
Country music hitmaker Jeff Bates is set to release his long-awaited first gospel album, Hymns From the Church in the Wildwood, arriving May 1 via Tall Grass Records. The project marks a deeply personal milestone for Bates, whose journey of faith, redemption, and gratitude is woven into every note. This spring also marks a powerful anniversary...