Brett James, the Grammy-winning songwriter renowned for hits like “Jesus, Take the Wheel,” is feared dead following a plane crash in North Carolina. The incident occurred on March 14, 2024, and is currently under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). While authorities have not officially confirmed his death, local reports indicate that the aircraft was registered to James, who was born Brett Cornelius.
Images from the crash site, which are circulating on social media, show the tail registration number N218VB, associated with James. The crash reportedly resulted in three fatalities near an elementary school, according to local officials cited by NBC affiliate WMSV in Nashville.
Tributes Pour In for a Respected Artist
The Nashville Songwriters’ Hall of Fame, which inducted James in 2020, expressed profound sorrow over the loss. Numerous artists took to social media to pay tribute to the acclaimed songwriter. Country star Dierks Bentley shared heartfelt words on Instagram, praising James as “one of the best singer-songwriters in our town” and recalling how their collaboration on the song “I Hold On” transformed his career.
James enjoyed immense success with “Jesus, Take the Wheel,” which became a number one hit for Carrie Underwood in 2006. The song not only won a Grammy for Best Country Song but also earned the award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance. His prolific songwriting career includes contributions to numerous top-charting tracks recorded by artists such as Faith Hill, Kenny Chesney, and Tim McGraw.
A Journey from Medicine to Music
Originally hailing from Oklahoma City, James initially pursued a career in medicine, even enrolling in medical school. However, his passion for music proved irresistible. After an unsuccessful start with his first solo album, he briefly returned to medical studies in 1999. In a recent interview with PBS’s “The Songwriters,” James recounted how the dean of his medical school encouraged him to follow his dreams, stating, “you can’t ever come back.”
Reflecting on his journey, James remarked, “I thought I was quitting the business. But then Faith Hill recorded my song ‘Love is a Sweet Thing.’” This pivotal moment reignited his career, leading to an impressive number of songs recorded by various artists.
James’s impact on the music industry is undeniable. Initially, he dreamed of having ten versions of his songs recorded. To his astonishment, he achieved thirty-three recordings in one year, highlighting his extraordinary talent and the widespread appeal of his work.
As the investigation continues and tributes accumulate, the music community mourns the potential loss of a gifted songwriter whose work shaped the landscape of contemporary country and pop music.
