A routine flight turned fatal for beloved country songwriter Brett James and two companions when their plane crashed near Franklin, North Carolina, in September.
The music world is reeling as details emerge about the final moments aboard the Cirrus SR22T aircraft.
James, 57, was flying with his girlfriend Melody Wilson, 59, and her daughter Meryl Maxwell Wilson, 28, when the plane reportedly entered a “tightening spiral” before hitting a field near Valley Elementary School.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) described the sequence in a preliminary report, raising questions about how the flight went so tragically wrong.
Flight Details and Last Communications
The ill-fated journey began in Nashville at John C. Tune Airport, with James piloting a personal flight to Macon County Airport.
Around 2:48 p.m., he told air traffic controllers that he could see the runway.
He was then cleared to switch to a common traffic advisory frequency, typically used at smaller, non-towered airports.
Moments later, James reported flying at just 6,800 feet and preparing to make a 360-degree turn before landing.
That was the last transmission received. Witnesses nearby described seeing the plane flying very low over a school playground, with its wings rocking side-to-side.
The aircraft then rolled inverted before disappearing behind trees and crashing. Thankfully, no one on the ground was hurt.
Investigation and Plane Status
The aircraft came to rest upright in the field, leaving all major components intact.
Investigators have so far found no evidence of engine failure, and the plane has been recovered for further examination.
The NTSB continues to analyze the crash to determine what caused the deadly spiral.
Remembering Brett James and His Family
James leaves behind four adult children and his ex-wife, Sandra Cornelius.
He had been in a relationship with Melody Wilson for several years, and the couple frequently shared glimpses of their life together on social media.
Tragically, Melody had wished her daughter Meryl a happy 28th birthday just a day before the crash, celebrating her milestone with heartfelt posts on Instagram.
James’ Legacy in Country Music
Brett James was more than a pilot—he was a giant in the country music world.
He penned hits for stars like Carrie Underwood, including the Grammy-winning “Jesus, Take The Wheel,” and Jason Aldean’s “The Truth.”
He even co-wrote Taylor Swift’s “A Perfectly Good Heart” for her debut album.
Twice named Country Songwriter of the Year by the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers, James was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2020.
Beyond songwriting, James worked as a producer and served on the boards of both the Country Music Association and the Recording Academy.
He also owned the publishing company Cornman Music.
Tributes Pour In from Music Stars
Following the news of his death, Carrie Underwood remembered James with warmth and admiration.
She described him as “the epitome of cool,” recalling how he would ride up to songwriting sessions on his motorcycle with hair perfectly styled despite his helmet.
She shared a memory of collaborating with James, emphasizing his generosity and fairness:
“I remember writing with him on a song he had mostly finished.
I told him I didn’t feel right splitting credit evenly, but he insisted everything be equal. He was just that kind of guy.”
Other celebrities also joined the chorus of mourning, honoring James’ talent, kindness, and impact on the country music community.
A Community in Mourning
Brett James’ sudden passing has left fans and colleagues in shock, with his legacy now defined both by his iconic songs and the generosity of his spirit.
His contributions to country music will continue to resonate, even as his family and the music world grapple with this heartbreaking loss.