Brett James, the Grammy-winning songwriter behind Carrie Underwood’s “Jesus, Take the Wheel” and dozens of chart-toppers, died Thursday in a small-plane crash near Franklin, North Carolina. He was 57.
The Cirrus SR22T, registered in James’ name, departed from Nashville and crashed near Iotla Valley Elementary School. No one on the ground was injured. The FAA and NTSB are investigating.
James wrote or co-wrote hits for Taylor Swift, Bon Jovi, Kelly Clarkson, Dierks Bentley, Rascal Flatts, and more. He was twice named ASCAP Country Songwriter of the Year and earned dozens of industry awards. He also co-founded Cornman Music and served on key music industry boards.
The Country Music Association just posted a tribute to his passing on Twitter, saying: “We are heartbroken by the loss of Brett James, a beloved songwriter and cherished member of the CMA family. A multiple-time CMA Triple Play Award winner, Brett‘s contributions to Country Music and his 17 years of service on the CMA Board will always be remembered. His talent, generosity, and kindness touched countless lives. Our thoughts are with his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him.”
We are heartbroken by the loss of Brett James, a beloved songwriter and cherished member of the CMA family. A multiple-time CMA Triple Play Award winner, Brett's contributions to Country Music and his 17 years of service on the CMA Board will always be remembered. His talent,… pic.twitter.com/j6b8jfjd9O
— CMA Country Music (@CountryMusic) September 19, 2025
His passing leaves a deep void in the music world he helped define for over two decades.
