Who Was Brett James
Brett James (full name Brett James Cornelius) was a Grammy-winning country music songwriter and producer, born June 5, 1968, in Columbia, Missouri. He studied pre-med briefly before turning to music full-time. Over his career he wrote or co-wrote numerous hits for major artists, including Carrie Underwood, Kenny Chesney, Jason Aldean, Martina McBride, Dierks Bentley, and others. His catalogue of songs has featured more than twenty-five No. 1 country hits, and his work has appeared on albums that have sold over 100 million copies.
Details of the Brett Plane Crash
On Thursday, September 18, 2025, Brett James died in a small-plane crash near Franklin, Macon County, North Carolina. The aircraft, a Cirrus SR22T registered under his name, crashed into a field near Iotla Valley Elementary School, just after 3 p.m. local time. All three people on board were killed. Students and staff at the school were unharmed.
The plane had departed earlier that day from John C. Tune Airport in Nashville. The crash site investigation involves the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), and North Carolina Highway Patrol. At this time officials have not released a definitive cause.
The Impact & “Jesus, Take The Wheel”
One of Brett James’s best-known works is “Jesus, Take The Wheel,” made famous by Carrie Underwood. The song won Grammy Awards for Best Country Song and Best Female Country Vocal Performance. It remains one of the defining songs of his songwriting legacy.
He also penned “When The Sun Goes Down,” “I Hold On,” among many others. His skill lay in creating songs that connect emotionally, with clean lyrics and universal themes. Fans, fellow writers, and industry figures are mourning not just the tragedy but the loss of a creative voice.
Brett James Net Worth
Estimates of Brett James’s net worth at the time of his death range from "USD $17 million" to "USD $20 million". His income came largely from songwriting royalties, music publishing, production credits, and ownership of part of his song catalog.
Given the size of his catalogue, the number of No. 1 hits, and the success of albums featuring his songs, those estimates are consistent with how top songwriters in Nashville build wealth over decades.
Today 19 September 2025
Today, tributes continue pouring in across social media. The Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, ASCAP, and other music institutions released statements remembering Brett James as a humble collaborator and towering talent.
The investigation by the FAA and NTSB is ongoing. Authorities are expected to release further details about flight path, weather, mechanical status, and maintenance history in the coming days.
Legacy and Influence
Brett James helped define modern country songwriting. His works cross genre boundaries, resonating with country, pop, Christian audiences. He won numerous awards, including ASCAP Country Songwriter of the Year in 2006 and 2010, and was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2020.
Beyond awards, his influence shows in younger songwriters quoting him as mentor or inspiration. His songs continue to get streamed globally, proving durability even beyond his passing.
FAQ
What exactly happened in the plane crash involving Brett James?
The crash occurred near Franklin, North Carolina, in a field beside Iotla Valley Elementary School. The plane, a Cirrus SR22T, crashed around 3 p.m. local time with three people aboard. None survived.
Where did the plane take off from?
It departed from John C. Tune Airport in Nashville, Tennessee earlier the same day.
What is the connection between Brett James and “Jesus, Take The Wheel”?
Brett James co-wrote “Jesus, Take The Wheel,” which became one of Carrie Underwood’s signature hits and won multiple Grammy Awards. It is among his most celebrated works.
How old was Brett James at the time of his death?
He was 57 years old. Born in 1968, died September 18, 2025.
What was Brett James net worth?
Estimations place his net worth between USD 17 million and USD 20 million. Most wealth came from song royalties, publishing rights, and his catalog of hits.
Were there any survivors?
No. All three people aboard the plane died in the crash.
Is the crash being investigated?
Yes. The FAA, NTSB, and North Carolina Highway Patrol are working together to determine causes. Investigation ongoing.
Conclusion
Brett James was more than just a songwriter of hits. He shaped country music beyond chart positions. His death in the Franklin, NC plane crash is a tragic moment for fans and fellow artists alike. As investigations proceed, what remains firm is his legacy: “Jesus, Take The Wheel,” dozens of number-one songs, and a catalog that will continue to bring comfort and joy. Learn more about his songs, influence, and the ongoing investigation into the plane crash.
