The music world is mourning the sudden loss of Brett James, a celebrated songwriter behind hits for Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood, and Jason Aldean.
James, 57, was killed Thursday in a small plane crash in Franklin, North Carolina, along with two other passengers.
Details of the Accident
James was aboard a Cirrus SR22T that went down west of Iotla Valley Elementary School in Franklin on Thursday afternoon.
Authorities confirmed that all three on board were pronounced dead at the scene.
Thankfully, students and staff at the nearby school were unharmed, according to the Macon County Sheriff’s Office.
The Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board are investigating the cause of the crash.
The plane had departed from Nashville, Tennessee, around 12:41 p.m., before the tragic accident occurred.
Remembering a Hitmaker
Brett James leaves behind a legacy of country music hits, including Carrie Underwood’s Grammy-winning “Jesus, Take The Wheel” and Jason Aldean’s “The Truth.”
He was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2020, an honor he described as “truly the greatest of my life.”
Over the years, James was twice named Country Songwriter of the Year by the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers.
He also contributed as a producer and served on the boards of the Country Music Association and the Recording Academy.
Additionally, he owned the publishing company Cornman Music.
From Medicine to Music
Born on June 5, 1968, in Columbia, Missouri, James originally planned a career in medicine.
Halfway through medical school, he chose to follow his passion for music instead.
He signed with Arista Nashville’s Career Records and released his first solo album in 1995.
It was his work as a songwriter, however, that cemented his reputation.
His songs were celebrated for their emotional depth, connecting with audiences in ways James had long hoped to achieve.
A Legacy That Will Endure
Carrie Underwood, Taylor Swift, and countless other artists benefited from James’ gift for storytelling through song.
As news of his passing spreads, the music community and fans alike are honoring the songwriter whose work touched millions.
This story is developing and will be updated as more details emerge.