The music industry is mourning the loss of Brett James, a Grammy Award-winning songwriter whose work shaped country and pop music for more than two decades. James, 57, was killed in a plane crash in North Carolina on Thursday afternoon, according to reports from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the North Carolina State Highway Patrol. His wife, Melody Wilson, 59, and her daughter, Meryl Maxwell Wilson, 28, were also onboard and did not survive.
Authorities confirmed the crash occurred near Franklin, North Carolina, shortly after 3 p.m. local time. The aircraft involved was identified as a Cirrus SR22T single-engine plane, registered under James’ legal name, Brett James Cornelius. The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are leading an investigation to determine the cause of the crash.
Details of the Crash
According to the FAA, the plane had departed from John C. Tune Airport in Nashville, Tennessee, earlier that day. Officials stated that the aircraft went down under “unknown circumstances” and came to rest in a wooded area. The North Carolina State Highway Patrol confirmed that all three occupants were pronounced dead at the scene.
At this time, it has not been confirmed whether James was piloting the plane. The NTSB will review weather conditions, flight data, maintenance records, and other factors as part of its ongoing investigation.
Brett James’ Life and Career in Music
Brett James was born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, in 1966. He originally pursued a career in medicine, enrolling in medical school before ultimately choosing to follow his passion for songwriting in Nashville. His career breakthrough came in 2001, when he co-wrote Jessica Andrews’ hit Who I Am, which reached No. 1 on the country charts.
Over the next two decades, James became one of Nashville’s most in-demand songwriters. His catalog includes more than 500 recorded songs, featured on albums that collectively sold over 110 million copies worldwide, according to the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame.
Among his most celebrated works is Jesus, Take the Wheel, performed by Carrie Underwood, which won the Grammy Award for Best Country Song in 2006. He also penned multiple hits for Kenny Chesney, including When the Sun Goes Down and Out Last Night.
Honors and Recognition
In recognition of his contributions to songwriting, Brett James was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2020. The organization described him as “one of the most prolific and respected songwriters of his generation.”
James also enjoyed success as a recording artist. In 2020, he released his self-titled album, which he described as a more personal and reflective body of work compared to mainstream radio singles. The project showcased his storytelling ability and offered fans a rare glimpse of his own voice as a performer.
Personal Life
Brett James married Melody Wilson in August 2021, a union she shared publicly on social media the following year. James also had four children with his first wife, Sandra Cornelius-Little.
Friends, family, and colleagues in the music industry have expressed deep grief at the loss of James, Melody, and Meryl. Country star Jason Aldean wrote on social media that he was “heartbroken” to learn of James’ death and described him as a mentor and friend who had a lasting impact on his career.
Carrie Underwood, one of the many artists closely connected to James’ songwriting, previously praised him for his generosity, recalling how he once insisted she receive credit on a song despite writing the majority of it himself.
Remembering Brett James
Brett James’ passing marks a profound loss for the music community. From his early decision to leave medicine for music, to his rise as one of Nashville’s most respected songwriters, James lived a life defined by creativity and resilience. His songs continue to be performed on stages around the world, ensuring that his legacy will endure.
As tributes continue to pour in, colleagues and fans alike celebrate his ability to tell stories through music that connected with millions. His songs remain an important part of modern country music, and his influence will carry forward in the next generation of songwriters and performers.
Conclusion
The tragic plane crash that claimed the lives of Brett James, Melody Wilson, and Meryl Maxwell Wilson has left an immense void in the world of music. James’ remarkable contributions as a songwriter, collaborator, and mentor will be remembered for decades to come.
As investigations continue into the cause of the crash, the focus remains on honoring James’ legacy—a man whose songs not only topped charts but also touched lives.
His induction into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame and his body of work across genres secure his place among the greats of American music history.