Nashville is mourning the loss of Brett James, a beloved and highly respected songwriter, who died on Thursday, September 18, 2025, in a plane crash in Franklin, North Carolina. He was 57 years old. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the accident involved a Cirrus SR22T aircraft that crashed around 3 p.m. local time near Iotla Valley Elementary School, not far from the Macon County Airport. There were three people on board, including James, and all of them died in the crash. Investigations are currently underway by the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board.
A Change of Career Guided by Passion. Brett James, born Brett Cornelius on June 5, 1968, in Columbia, Missouri, originally planned to become a doctor. He enrolled in medical school at the University of Oklahoma, but during his studies, he realized that his true passion was music. Trusting his instincts, he made the difficult decision to leave medical school and pursue a career in the music industry—a decision that would lead him to become one of country music’s most influential songwriters.
In 1995, James signed with Arista Nashville’s Career Records and released a self-titled debut album. Although his career as a solo artist was brief, it opened the door to what would become his life’s work: songwriting.
Writing the Soundtrack of a Generation
Over the next 30 years, Brett James wrote more than 800 songs recorded by top artists across country, pop, and rock music. His work shaped the sound of 2000s and 2010s country radio. Some of his most well-known hits include:
- “Jesus, Take the Wheel” – Carrie Underwood
- “Cowboy Casanova” – Carrie Underwood
- “When the Sun Goes Down” – Kenny Chesney & Uncle Kracker
- “I Hold On” – Dierks Bentley
- “The Truth” – Jason Aldean
- “Summer Nights” – Rascal Flatts
His first No. 1 hit came in 2001 with Jessica Andrews’ “Who I Am.” From then on, his success only grew. He had more than 25 chart-topping singles and wrote songs recorded by artists like Tim McGraw, Luke Bryan, Keith Urban, Miranda Lambert, Kelly Clarkson, Bon Jovi, Steven Tyler, Florida Georgia Line, and The Backstreet Boys.
In 2007, James won a GRAMMY Award for Best Country Song for “Jesus, Take the Wheel,” a powerful ballad that became a defining moment in his career.
A Mentor and Industry Leader
Brett James was not only known for his songs but also for his leadership and influence in the music industry. He served on the CMA Board of Directors for 18 years, was a National Trustee for The Recording Academy, and was a board member of the Nashville Songwriters Association International.
He also made an impact through his publishing company, Cornman Music, where he supported and mentored upcoming songwriters and artists. Through this work, he helped shape the next generation of talent in Nashville.
Heartfelt Tributes from Nashville
Many artists who worked with Brett James shared their grief and memories.
Carrie Underwood wrote:
“Brett James gave me one of the greatest gifts of my career with ‘Jesus, Take the Wheel.’ But more than that, he was a kind, generous, and brilliant soul. Nashville lost a giant today, and I lost a dear friend.”
Jason Aldean described him as “a songwriter who made us all better,” and Dierks Bentley praised his ability to “write songs that carried both truth and hope.”
A Legacy That Lives On
Despite his many awards and accomplishments, Brett James remained humble. He rarely sought the spotlight and preferred to let his music speak for itself. His songs told stories of faith, love, heartbreak, joy, and resilience—stories that continue to resonate with millions.
At 57, he leaves behind a powerful musical legacy, as well as a life defined by service, mentorship, and inspiration.
Brett once said that songwriting was “like planting seeds—you never know which will grow.”
By that measure, his legacy will continue to grow for generations.
