Story perspectives

Grammy-Winning Songwriter Brett James Dies in Plane Crash

9/20/2025

Summary

Brett James Dies

Brett James, a Grammy-winning songwriter, died in a plane crash in Franklin, North Carolina, on September 18, 2025, at age 57.
He was flying a Cirrus SR22T with his wife, Melody Carole, and her daughter, Meryl Maxwell Wilson; all three perished.
The plane took off from Nashville, Tennessee, and crashed near Iotla Valley Elementary School, causing no injuries on the ground.
James co-wrote Carrie Underwood's Grammy-winning song "Jesus, Take the Wheel" and was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2020.
The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board are investigating the crash.

Summary

Carrie Underwood Mourns

Carrie Underwood mourned Brett James' death, describing it as "unfathomable" and praising his songwriting generosity.
She recounted personal stories, highlighting his commitment to sharing credit for their work.
Underwood reflected on their shared faith and church performances, noting his absence will impact the music community.
James, a celebrated songwriter, wrote hits for artists like Kenny Chesney and Miranda Lambert and was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2020.
An investigation into the crash that also claimed his wife and stepdaughter is ongoing.

History

Historical Context

The 2001 plane crash that killed singer Aaliyah and eight others raised significant concerns about private aviation safety. This tragedy led to heightened scrutiny of flight regulations for small aircraft. Similarly, the 2025 crash involving songwriter Brett James, which also resulted in family fatalities, has reignited discussions about aviation safety standards, prompting potential regulatory reforms to protect those in the entertainment industry.

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Brett James Dies

Brett James, a Grammy-winning songwriter, died in a plane crash in Franklin, North Carolina, on September 18, 2025, at age 57.
He was flying a Cirrus SR22T with his wife, Melody Carole, and her daughter, Meryl Maxwell Wilson; all three perished.
The plane took off from Nashville, Tennessee, and crashed near Iotla Valley Elementary School, causing no injuries on the ground.
James co-wrote Carrie Underwood's Grammy-winning song "Jesus, Take the Wheel" and was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2020.
The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board are investigating the crash.

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