Brett James dies in tragic plane crash in North Carolina
- Brett James, a renowned songwriter, died in a plane crash on September 18, 2025.
- The crash involved a Cirrus SR22T and occurred shortly after the flight took off from Nashville.
- Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the crash, and tributes have flooded social media in memory of James.
On September 18, 2025, a small plane crash occurred in Franklin, North Carolina, resulting in the tragic death of songwriter Brett James. According to reports, a single-engine Cirrus SR22T, with three people on board, went down shortly after departing from Nashville. Tragically, no survivors were found at the crash site, which was located near Iotla Valley Elementary School. Thankfully, the school was reported safe, with no injury to students or staff. This crash is under investigation by both the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board, who will look into the cause of the incident. Brett James, 57, was a celebrated figure in the country music community, known primarily for his songwriting contributions over a career spanning more than two decades. His profound impact on the industry is highlighted by his writing credits for numerous hit songs, notably Carrie Underwood's two-time Grammy Award-winning track 'Jesus, Take the Wheel.' He also penned several chart-topping hits for other prominent artists, including Kenny Chesney and Jason Aldean. Notably, Brett became a member of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2020, which signified the respect and acclaim he garnered within the music industry. His music encompassed various themes and resonated with a wide audience, making him a key figure in the evolution of contemporary country music. His untimely death has sparked an outpouring of tributes and condolences from fans, fellow musicians, and industry professionals. As news of his passing spread across social media platforms, many reflected on his significant contributions to the art of songwriting and the emotional connection his music fostered within the country music community. While the investigation continues, the loss of Brett James stands as a tragic reminder of the fragility of life, leaving many to mourn not only the individual but the legacy he leaves within the genre he so passionately influenced. As friends, family, and fans approach this difficult time, the call remains to honor the creativity and spirit that Brett James infused into the world through his music.