Brett James, Writer of Carrie Underwood's "Jesus Take the Wheel," Dies

The music world is mourning the tragic loss of Grammy Award-winning songwriter and producer Brett James, who died in a plane crash on September 18, 2025, alongside his wife Melody Carole Wilson and stepdaughter Meryl Maxwell Wilson. He was 57.

James, a member of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, was best known for penning Carrie Underwood's signature anthem "Jesus, Take the Wheel," which earned him Grammy and Academy of Country Music honors and became one of the most beloved songs in modern country and Christian music. His catalog also includes hits such as Kenny Chesney and Uncle Kracker's "When the Sun Goes Down" and Carrie Underwood's "Cowboy Casanova."

Underwood, who collaborated closely with James, shared an emotional tribute:

"Some things are just unfathomable. The loss of Brett James to his family, friends, and our music community is too great to put into words. Brett was the epitome of 'cool.' I see him in my mind riding up to my cabins to write on his motorcycle... his hair somehow perfectly coiffed despite being under a helmet for however long. I always loved hearing him sing 'Cowboy Casanova' because a sassy girl anthem should've sounded ridiculous coming from a macho dude like him, but somehow, he even made that cool."

She added:

"Brett loved the Lord. Which is the only comfort we can hold on to now. My favorite songs to sing of ours are the ones that he or we wrote about Jesus because the thoughts and feelings behind them are so genuine and pure. I won't ever sing one note of them again without thinking of him."

Colleagues and friends remember James not only for his songwriting brilliance but also for his humility and generosity. "He insisted that everything be equal," Underwood recalled of their songwriting sessions, even when he had written most of the material beforehand. "He was just that kind of guy."

As tributes pour in from across the industry, Brett James's passing leaves an indelible void in Nashville and beyond. His life and music will continue to inspire generations, reminding us-as his songs so often did-that each day is a gift.

Memorial service details will be shared in the coming days. The family and friends of Brett James ask for continued prayers during this time of profound loss.

 

 

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