Russ Taff, on Childhood Trauma, Church Hurt, Alcoholism, Fame, & Redemption (Ep 99)

A preacher's kid with a ton of unacknowledged trauma becomes one of the world's most heralded Christian singers. This is the Russ Taff story.

Russ Taff was one of the great voices of Christian Music in the 1970s-90s, winning five Grammys, 13 Dove Awards, and being inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame three times (with the Imperials, the Gaither Vocal Band, and as a solo artist).

He also spent decades struggling with alcoholism, church hurt, and shame, stemming from the severe trauma of his childhood in a pastor’s home. This interview is different from my usual podcasts. It’s raw, it’s very emotional, and it’s really long (but worth every minute).

In addition to talking with Russ about his testimony, he and I also take a song-by-song walk through his newest album, Cover Story, which is a journey through his story of pain, trauma, lament, and redemption.


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Credits

Producer: Veronica Beaver

Editor: Phil Vaters

Music: Composed and performed by Jack Wilkins

Logo: by Solomon Joy


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