Russ Taff is best known as the voice that brought the sometimes staid Southern Gospel quartet The Imperials kicking and screaming toward a more fresh, contemporary sound in the late 1970s. Taff departed the group after the release of the 1980 album Priority, establishing himself in the 80s as one of the most innovative solo artists in contemporary Christian music. Although Taff's acclaimed work did not often equal commercial success, its critical cachet earned him the right to record the roots-rock gem Under Their Influence, Vol. 1 in 1991 and the classic A Christmas Song in 1993. Dialing back the grit and swagger in his voice a few notches, Taff aimed for the swing and sass of singers such as Ella Fitzgerald, Nat "King" Cole and the venerable Bing Crosby -- and scored a direct hit! If you've missed out on the delights of A Christmas Song, this linkEnjoy!






