‘Jesus Take the Wheel’ Songwriter Brett James Dies in Plane Crash at 57

Grammy-winning songwriter Brett James, who penned enduring country hits such as Carrie Underwood’s “Jesus, Take the Wheel” and Kenny Chesney’s “When the Sun Goes Down,” died Thursday in a plane crash at the age of 57. The accident involved a Cirrus SR22T aircraft, which went down near Franklin, North Carolina, resulting in the deaths of all three individuals aboard. The National Transportation Safety Board has initiated an inquiry to determine the cause of the small-engine plane crash.

James’s passing was confirmed Friday in a social media tribute by the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. ASCAP, the performance rights organization that honored him twice as Country Songwriter of the Year, also released a statement praising his legacy, calling him “a trusted partner to country music’s biggest stars and a dedicated champion for songwriters.” His death has prompted an outpouring of condolences from artists, producers, and industry professionals nationwide.

Born Brett Cornelius in Oklahoma City, James initially pursued a medical career before relocating to Nashville to follow his musical ambitions. After a short period as a performing artist, he shifted his focus to songwriting—a move that quickly proved fruitful. His first major success arrived in 2001 when Jessica Andrews’ recording of “Who I Am” reached number one, marking the start of a remarkably productive two-decade span during which he helped shape the sound of contemporary country.

Among his many achievements, “Jesus, Take the Wheel”—co-written with Hillary Lindsey and Gordie Sampson—won the Grammy for Best Country Song in 2006, in addition to earning ACM and ASCAP honors. James’s extensive and varied catalog includes modern classics like Underwood’s “Cowboy Casanova,” Chesney’s “Out Last Night,” Rodney Atkins’ “It’s America,” and Rascal Flatts’ “Summer Nights.” He even showcased his stylistic range by co-writing Paulina Rubio’s bilingual pop hit “The One You Love (Todo Mi Amor).”

Beyond his commercial accomplishments, James was widely admired for his mentorship and collaborative spirit within the Nashville music community. As one veteran producer noted, “Brett believed a truly great song resonates because it tells a story people recognize in their own lives—that’s what made his work so timeless.” Known for his generosity and emotional authenticity, James leaves behind a body of work that will undoubtedly continue to inspire and connect with audiences for generations.