How would you rate Brett James’ impact on country music?
Grammy-Winning Songwriter Brett James Dies in North Carolina Plane Crash
Brett James, a Grammy-winning songwriter best known for penning country and pop hits like “Jesus, Take the Wheel†and “When the Sun Goes Down,†died in a plane crash on September 18, 2025, in Franklin, North Carolina. He was 57. The private plane, a Cirrus SR22T registered to James, crashed with three people aboard — all presumed dead. An investigation by the FAA and NTSB is underway to determine the cause. James was a prolific force in country music, earning Grammy and ASCAP honors, and a spot in the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. His songs were recorded by Carrie Underwood, Kenny Chesney, Jason Aldean, and many others. The music world is mourning his passing, with tributes pouring in from across the industry. His legacy is likely to grow even more in the years to come as fans revisit the catalog of one of country’s greatest modern hitmakers.
Options
- Legendary songwriter
- Underrated but influential
- Modest impact
- Not familiar with him