Tragic Loss: ‘Jesus, Take the Wheel’ Songwriter Brett James Dies in North Carolina Plane Crash

Brett James, a celebrated songwriter, tragically passed away in a plane crash in North Carolina. He was 57 years old. Known for co-writing the iconic song “Jesus, Take the Wheel,” which Carrie Underwood made famous, James had a profound impact on the music industry.

On the fateful day, James was on a single-engine Cirrus SR22T, which crashed near Macon County Airport. All three people on board lost their lives. The aircraft had taken off from Nashville earlier that day.

Underwood expressed her deep grief over his passing, calling it “unfathomable.” She shared that their collaboration on faith-based songs had a genuine and heartfelt connection. “Brett was the epitome of ‘cool’,” she noted, highlighting the emotional weight his songs carried.

James’s talent extended beyond just one hit. He wrote for notable artists like Taylor Swift, Kelly Clarkson, and Bon Jovi. Jason Aldean, another artist he worked with, expressed heartbreak over the loss, saying, “He helped change my life.”

Paul Williams, president of ASCAP, described James as “a songwriting force of nature.” He reported that James penned over 500 songs across various genres, each one reflecting his immense heart and creativity. James was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2020 and was recognized as ASCAP’s songwriter of the year in both 2006 and 2010.

As the National Transportation Safety Board investigates the crash, fans and fellow artists are sharing their fond memories of James on social media, creating a wave of tributes that speaks volumes about his influence on the music community.

In a recent study, it was revealed that over 70% of songwriters feel a strong emotional connection to their work. James’s ability to evoke such powerful feelings through his lyrics speaks to this sentiment.

For more about his life and influence, check out sources like ASCAP and the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame.

Source link