Country Musician Brett James Dies in Aircraft Crash
Country singer and songwriter Brett James tragically passed away last week following a small plane crash in North Carolina, which also claimed the lives of his wife and stepdaughter. James was notably a co-writer of the Grammy Award-winning song “Jesus, Take the Wheel,” performed by Carrie Underwood.
The incident occurred around 3 PM on September 17 near Iotra Valley Elementary School in Franklin. The cause of the crash is still being investigated. James, whose full name was Brett James Cornelius, was piloting a Cirrus SR22t aircraft when it crashed in fields next to the Mekong County airport.
On board with him were his wife, Melody Carroll Wilson, and stepdaughter, Meryl Maxwell Wilson.
James, born on June 5, 1968, in Columbia, Missouri, embarked on his music career in the early ’90s, right after graduating from medical school. Over his impressive two-decade career, he wrote more than 500 songs for numerous artists in the country music scene, including big names like Faith Hill, Tim McGraw, and Kenny Chesney.
In 2007, he co-wrote “Jesus, Take the Wheel” with Hillary Lindsey and Gordy Sampson, which won a Grammy Award for Best Country Song and was named ASCAP’s Country Song of the Year in 2006.
James had an extensive catalog of writing credits, including hits like Martina McBride’s “Blessed,” Kenny Chesney’s “Last Night Out,” and Carrie Underwood’s “Cowboy Casanova,” demonstrating his broad influence within the genre.
Following his death, Underwood, along with other country artists, paid tribute to James on social media. She mentioned in a post that while his passing was difficult, she found solace in knowing he was a person of faith. “Brett loved the Lord, and that is the comfort we hold on to. We even had the joy of singing together in church,” she shared, expressing how his songs about faith were especially meaningful.
She added, “Brett’s passing leaves a significant void for all of us. It serves as a reminder that life is fleeting, and we must cherish every day.” Similarly, Rascal Flatts expressed their sorrow, describing him as an extraordinary songwriter and a remarkable man, while also conveying their sympathies to his family.
Country artist Jason Aldean also honored James during a performance in Lincoln, Nebraska, recalling his collaboration with James on the song “The Truth.” He expressed his respect for James and extended thoughts and prayers to his family.
