The music world is in mourning mode as Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Brett James has tragically died in a plane crash near Franklin, North Carolina. He was 57.
Authorities confirmed that the small aircraft, which departed from Nashville, Tennessee, went down in a field not far from a local school. All three people on board, including James, lost their lives, though no one on the ground was injured. The National Transportation Safety Board has opened an investigation into the cause of the crash.
James, originally from Oklahoma, was one of Nashville’s most celebrated songwriters, with a career spanning more than two decades. He earned global recognition for co-writing Carrie Underwood’s breakout hit “Jesus, Take the Wheel,” which won the 2006 Grammy Award for Best Country Song and cemented his reputation as one of the industry’s finest storytellers.
Over the years, his songwriting credits stretched across genres, shaping the soundtracks of countless lives. He penned chart-topping hits such as Kenny Chesney’s “Out Last Night” and Bon Jovi’s “Who Says You Can’t Go Home.” His work with artists like Taylor Swift, Keith Urban, and Kelly Clarkson contributed to record sales exceeding 110 million worldwide.
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Known for his relentless work ethic and lyrical depth, James wrote or co-wrote more than 500 songs performed by some of the biggest names in music. Within Nashville, he was seen not just as a hitmaker but as a cornerstone of the songwriting community.
Beyond the accolades, James was admired for his generosity and mentorship of younger artists, guiding the next generation of songwriters with the same passion he poured into his own music. His ability to blend traditional country storytelling with modern sounds left a lasting mark on contemporary music.
Tributes are already pouring in from across the industry, with friends, collaborators, and fans remembering him not only as a gifted writer but also as a devoted father and friend.
Brett James’s passing marks a devastating loss for Nashville and the global music community. His songs will live on, carrying his voice and spirit to audiences for generations to come.
