Gospel singer Russ Taff to perform benefit concert Friday in Jackson

Gospel singer Russ Taff will perform a benefit concert Friday at the Jackson City Park Band shell to benefit Heartland Adaptive Sports. The concert will begin at 7 p.m.

Taff's music has won him five Grammy Awards and nine Gospel Music Association Dove Awards. He was part of gospel band the Imperials until he decided to pursue a solo career. On April 19, he was recognized for his lifetime contributions to the gospel music industry at the 43rd Annual Dove Awards. He also received three nominations.

Mike Scott, spokesman for Heartland Adaptive Sports, said he chose Taff to perform at the concert because he appeals to both a contemporary and traditional crowd. Scott is also Taff's second cousin.

"The contemporary people like him because he pioneered that business," Scott said.

Taff will be joined by special guests The Songfellows Quartet. The gospel group has been part of the industry for more than 60 years. They originally formed in 1944 in San Diego. The group relocated to Nashville in 2006 after founder Bob Jones Sr. passed away. His son Bob Jones Jr. is still part of the quartet.

Heartland Adaptive Sports was created about a year ago but had been in the works for about three or four years, according to Scott. It is an organization that provides athletic opportunities to those who have disabilities.

"We want to let them know there are opportunities out there for them athletic wise," Scott said.

Scott said Heartland Adaptive Sports serves seven or eight athletes. However, he expects this number to grow as word gets out about the organization.

"There is a whole crowd out there that we have yet to tap," Scott said.

The money raised from the concert will help pay for special equipment and travel expenses for the athletes.

Tickets are available at Lifeway Christian Store in Cape Girardeau by calling 334-3570 or at Heartland Adaptive Sports by calling 579-9282. Ticket prices are $12 in advance and $15 at the gate. The group rate is $10 per ticket for a group of 10 or more.

ajones@semissourian.com

388-3654