Brett James, Hit Country Songwriter, Dies in Plane Crash at 57

Franklin, North Carolina — The country music community is reeling from the devastating news of Brett James’s untimely death.

The Grammy-winning songwriter, known for crafting timeless hits like “Jesus, Take the Wheel” and “When the Sun Goes Down,” tragically lost his life in a small-plane crash on September 18, 2025, at the age of 57.

Alongside him in the crash were his wife, Melody Carole Wilson, and her daughter, Meryl Maxwell Wilson.

The shocking news has left fans, fellow artists, and the entire music industry mourning.

What Happened

Brett James was aboard a Cirrus SR22T aircraft registered in his name, legally known as Brett James Cornelius.

The crash occurred in a field near Franklin in Macon County, close to Iotla Valley Elementary School.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported on the ground, but the loss of life in the aircraft is profoundly felt.

Authorities, including the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.

As of now, the exact cause remains unclear.

Brett James’s Legacy

Born on June 5, 1968, in Columbia, Missouri, James initially pursued a career in medicine before discovering his passion for music.

Over the decades, he became a prolific songwriter, credited with nearly 500 songs for major artists like Carrie Underwood, Kenny Chesney, Faith Hill, Kelly Clarkson, and Jason Aldean.

Among his most notable works, “Jesus, Take the Wheel” stands out as a defining song for Underwood, earning multiple awards and accolades.

In recognition of his significant contributions to the industry, James was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2020.

His ability to weave emotional narratives into melodies made him a cherished figure in country music.

Reactions from the Music Community

In the wake of this tragedy, tributes have poured in from across the music industry.

Carrie Underwood, who collaborated closely with James, shared a heartfelt message commemorating his creativity, generosity, and deep faith.

She expressed the profound impact his loss will have on the music community.

Other country artists, songwriters, and industry figures have also taken to social media to pay their respects, emphasizing James’s influence not only through his chart-topping hits but also through his mentorship, artistry, and personal kindness.

The outpouring of grief highlights the deep connections he forged within the industry.

What We Still Don’t Know

As investigations continue, the exact cause of the crash remains under scrutiny.

It is still unclear whether mechanical failure, weather conditions, or human error played a role in this tragic incident.

Additionally, it has not been confirmed who was piloting the aircraft at the time of the crash, leaving many questions unanswered.

Why This Matters

Brett James was more than just a songwriter; he played a pivotal role in shaping modern country music while also crossing over into pop and mainstream culture.

His songs resonated deeply with listeners, becoming anthems that expressed a spectrum of human emotions.

His death represents not only the loss of a talented songwriter but also the absence of a voice that crafted songs people could relate to on a personal level.

In an industry where behind-the-scenes creators often go unrecognized, James was celebrated for his integrity, talent, and collaborative spirit.

His contributions to music will be felt for generations to come, and his legacy will continue to inspire aspiring songwriters and artists.

The tragedy of Brett James’s passing is still fresh, and the investigations into the crash are likely to take time.

However, the music world is already reflecting on the depth and significance of his contributions.

His melodies and lyrics will undoubtedly live on, echoing in the hearts of fans and fellow musicians alike.

While the silence left by his absence is profound, the legacy he built through his songs remains very much alive.

As the country music community navigates this painful loss, it also celebrates the life and work of a true musical icon whose impact will never be forgotten.