Brett James, an accomplished hitmaking songwriter, achieved a timeless stature in the genre. Tragically, he passed away in a plane crash on October 21, 2023. He was 57 years old. The shooting occurred in a forested, mountainous region near Franklin, North Carolina. Flying with James that day were his wife, Melody Carole, and his 22-year-old stepdaughter Meryl Maxwell Wilson. Sadly, all three people on board were killed in the crash.
Brett James, for example—tenured songwriter with four BMI Awards, among other accolades. He co-wrote a number of other chart-topping religious songs, including the 2005 crossover hit “Jesus, Take the Wheel,” which was released by Carrie Underwood. This song won the Grammy Award for Best Country Song in 2006 and cemented James’s status as a prominent figure in Nashville’s music scene. Over the course of his career, he had more than 500 songs recorded by various artists, contributing to albums with combined sales exceeding 110 million copies.
James, who was born in Oklahoma City, originally pursued a path toward medicine. He quickly resolved to pursue his lifelong dream of making music in Nashville. He had an opportunity to work with many of the great artists. These were featured singers such as Faith Hill, Luke Bryan, Keith Urban, Kelly Clarkson, Meghan Trainor and Nick Jonas. His incredible gift for writing thoughtful lyrics and ear-catching melodies made him the envy and inspiration of the entire industry.
The plane in the crash was a Cirrus SR22T, registered in his legal name of Brett Cornelius. The outpouring of love from fellow musicians and fans to commemorate his life far too soon, with tributes still pouring in was indicative of the legacy he left.
The executive director of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame reflected on James’s character and contributions to the community.
“Some things are just unfathomable. The loss of Brett James to his family, friends and our music community is too great to put into words.” – Carrie Underwood
Our music community is reeling from the tragic loss of our friend Brett James. His friends and collaborators will forever recall his artistic contributions, alongside his extraordinary kindness and generosity. His legacy, of course, cannot be measured solely by these achievements and will last in the many songs he brought to life.
“Brett’s passing is leaving a hole in all of us that I fear won’t ever go away.” – Carrie Underwood
In addition to Underwood’s statements, the executive director of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame reflected on James’s character and contributions to the community.
“He was a kind, giving, delightful soul.” – Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame’s executive director
The tragic loss of Brett James resonates deeply within the music community, as friends and collaborators remember him not only for his artistic achievements but also for his kindness and generosity. His legacy will undoubtedly continue through the countless songs he contributed to the world.