The country music world mourns the loss of acclaimed songwriter Brett James, who died tragically in a plane crash on Thursday, September 18th. The 57-year-old Grammy winner, along with two other passengers, perished when the single-engine plane he owned crashed in a field near Franklin, North Carolina. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are currently investigating the cause of the accident.
James, a Columbia, Missouri native, left an indelible mark on the country music landscape. His songwriting credits include iconic hits such as Carrie Underwood's "Jesus, Take the Wheel" and Kenny Chesney and Uncle Kracker's "When the Sun Goes Down." The latter song helped propel James to national recognition and solidified his place as a prolific and influential songwriter. His talent earned him a Grammy Award for Best Country Song in 2006 for "Jesus, Take the Wheel" and ASCAP's Country Songwriter of the Year awards in 2006 and 2010.
Despite initially pursuing a career in medicine like his father, a fateful Christmas gift of a $90 guitar sparked James's passion for music. After graduating from Baylor University, he ultimately chose the music industry over medical school, signing with Arista Nashville's Career Records as a solo artist. While he released a debut album in 1995, it was his songwriting prowess that catapulted him to fame.
Even in recent years, James remained active in the industry. In 2020, he released the EP "I Am Now," his first in over two decades, showcasing his continued dedication and artistry. The impact of his contributions was evident in the outpouring of grief from fellow musicians. Artists like Jason Aldean and Sara Evans shared heartfelt tributes on social media, expressing their deep sorrow and acknowledging James's significant influence on their careers and the country music scene as a whole.
James is survived by his wife, Sandra, and their four children. The news of his passing serves as a profound loss to the country music community and beyond, leaving behind a legacy of unforgettable songs and a talent that will be dearly missed.
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Originally published at: https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/music/2025/09/19/songwriter-brett-james-dead-plane-crash/86237557007/
