Grammy-Winning Songwriter Brett James Dies in Plane Crash at 57

Brett James, Renowned Country Songwriter, Dies at 57 in Plane Crash Nashville, TN - Brett James, the Grammy-winning country songwriter behind hits like Carrie Underwood's "Jesus, Take the Wheel" and Kenny Chesney's "Out Last Night," died Thursday when the plane he was piloting crashed in North Carolina. He was 57. According to the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, which inducted James in 2020, he was piloting a Cirrus SR22T plane that took off from Nashville's John C. Tune Airport Thursday afternoon before crashing in North Carolina. The cause of the crash is currently under investigation. James' music industry peers and fans are mourning his loss, with many taking to social media to pay tribute to his talent and legacy. "Brett was a true master songwriter," said Michael Knox, a fellow country songwriter and producer. "He had an incredible ability to craft songs that connected with listeners on a deep level." James' impact on the music industry cannot be overstated. With over 100 chart-topping hits to his name, he was one of Music City's most sought-after collaborators. His songwriting credits include Kenny Chesney's "When the Sun Goes Down," Dierks Bentley's "I Hold On," Martina McBride's "Blessed," and Jason Aldean's "The Truth." Born in 1968 in Nashville, James began his music career as a songwriter and producer before transitioning to a full-time songwriting role. He won the Grammy Award for Best Country Song in 2006 for "Jesus, Take the Wheel," which was recorded by Carrie Underwood. James' death serves as a poignant reminder of the risks faced by musicians who also fly planes. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), there were over 1,000 aviation-related fatalities in the United States between 2015 and 2020. As the music industry continues to grapple with James' passing, fans are left to reflect on his enduring legacy. "Brett's songs will continue to be sung for generations to come," said Underwood, who recorded several of James' hits. "He was a true artist and a kind soul." The investigation into the cause of the plane crash is ongoing, with officials from the North Carolina Department of Transportation and the FAA working together to determine the circumstances surrounding James' death. In related news, the music industry is taking steps to address concerns about pilot safety in the wake of James' passing. The Country Music Association (CMA) has announced plans to provide additional resources and support for musicians who fly planes, including access to training programs and safety workshops. As the music world mourns the loss of Brett James, his legacy as a songwriter and musician will continue to inspire and influence generations to come. *Reporting by Rollingstone.*