What Happened to Brett James? CMA Tribute And Plane Crash Details

Grammy winning songwriter Brett James died in a small plane crash near Franklin, North Carolina on September 18, 2025. The 57 year old Nashville based hitmaker was later honored at the 59th CMA Awards, where Kenny Chesney performed in his memory. Fans are now asking what happened to Brett James and how the country music world is saying goodbye.

James was known for writing some of the biggest country songs of the past two decades, including Carrie Underwood’s “Jesus, Take the Wheel” and Kenny Chesney’s “When the Sun Goes Down.” His death has shaken artists, writers, and fans across Nashville, who remembered him as a gifted writer and a generous collaborator.

What Happened To Brett James In The Plane Crash?

On September 18, 2025, Brett James was piloting a Cirrus SR22T when the aircraft went down near Macon County Airport in Franklin, North Carolina. Authorities said the plane had taken off earlier that day from John C. Tune Airport in Nashville and was approaching the North Carolina airport when the crash happened. There were three people on board and no survivors.

A preliminary report from federal investigators describes a loss of control close to the runway. Witnesses near the airport and a nearby school reported seeing the small plane flying low, rocking side to side, and then rolling inverted before it disappeared behind a tree line. Surveillance footage from the area also captured the aircraft spiraling toward the ground.

According to early National Transportation Safety Board findings, James had requested a visual approach to land. Data and video suggest he was attempting a turn near the airport when control was lost and the plane descended rapidly. The investigation is ongoing, and a full final report is expected to focus on pilot actions, weather, aircraft performance, and any mechanical issues.

Brett James’ wife, Melody Carole, 59, and her daughter, 28 year old Meryl Wilson, were also on board. Both were killed in the crash alongside James. Local officials confirmed that the wreckage came down in a field near Iotla Valley Elementary School, close to the Macon County Airport, but no one on the ground was injured.

Brett James’ Songwriting Legacy And CMA Awards Tribute

Brett James was more than a behind the scenes name in Nashville. Born in Columbia, Missouri in 1968, he built a career as a singer, songwriter, and producer, eventually becoming one of country music’s most respected hitmakers. Over the years he wrote or co wrote more than two dozen number one country songs and worked with a long list of major artists.

His credits include Carrie Underwood’s “Jesus, Take the Wheel,” “Cowboy Casanova,” and “Something in the Water.” He also penned Kenny Chesney favorites such as “When the Sun Goes Down,” “Out Last Night,” and “You Save Me.” Other stars who cut his songs include Jason Aldean, Dierks Bentley, Kelly Clarkson, Martina McBride, and many more, reinforcing his reputation as a go to writer for emotional, radio ready hits.

At the 59th CMA Awards on November 19, 2025, the industry paused to honor that legacy on one of its biggest stages. During the live show from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena, Kenny Chesney performed his 2004 hit “When the Sun Goes Down,” a song James helped write. As Chesney finished the performance, a tribute image of Brett James appeared on the big screen behind him, acknowledging the loss to the Nashville community.

The moment came shortly after Chesney’s own induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame, adding an extra layer of emotion for the artist as he honored a longtime collaborator and friend. Other stars, including Carrie Underwood, had already shared public tributes, describing James as cool, kind, and endlessly creative.

How The Country Music World Is Mourning Brett James

News of Brett James’ death spread quickly through Nashville and across social media. Artists he had written for, co writers who spent long days in the writing room with him, and industry colleagues all shared memories of his talent and personality. Many posts focused on his ability to lift up younger writers and his calm, easygoing presence in the studio.

For fans, the loss is tied to the songs that defined important moments in their lives. Hits like “Jesus, Take the Wheel” and “Something in the Water” became soundtracks for weddings, church services, and tough personal seasons. Chesney’s beach ready anthems that James co wrote helped shape an era of contemporary country radio. The knowledge that the man behind those songs is gone makes the music feel different, but also more precious.

Industry leaders have also pointed out how often James’ name appears in liner notes and award show credits. His work has been recognized with Grammy Awards and major country honors, and many in Nashville expect more formal tributes in the months ahead. Some have suggested scholarship funds, songwriter rounds dedicated to his catalog, and special performances to keep his songs in circulation for new audiences.

Brett James’ death in the North Carolina plane crash is a devastating loss for his family, his friends, and the wider country music community. As investigators work to fully explain what happened to Brett James, artists and fans are turning to the music he left behind. His songs will continue to play on radio, in arenas, and in homes around the world for years to come.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What happened to Brett James in North Carolina?

Brett James died on September 18, 2025, when the Cirrus SR22T he was piloting crashed near Macon County Airport in Franklin, North Carolina. Investigators say he appeared to lose control during a turn close to the runway. There were three people on board and no survivors.

Q2: Which hit songs did Brett James write for country stars?

He co wrote Carrie Underwood’s “Jesus, Take the Wheel,” “Cowboy Casanova,” and “Something in the Water.” He also wrote Kenny Chesney favorites like “When the Sun Goes Down,” “Out Last Night,” and “You Save Me,” along with cuts for Jason Aldean, Dierks Bentley, Kelly Clarkson, and Martina McBride.

Q3: How did the 2025 CMA Awards honor Brett James?

At the 59th CMA Awards in Nashville, Kenny Chesney performed “When the Sun Goes Down” during the live broadcast. As he finished the song, the big screen displayed a memorial image of Brett James, acknowledging his death and his impact as a songwriter.

Q4: Who else died in Brett James’ plane crash?

Two family members were on the plane with him. His wife, Melody Carole, 59, and her 28 year old daughter, Meryl Wilson, also died in the crash. Officials confirmed there were no survivors.

Q5: Is the Brett James plane crash investigation finished?

Authorities have released a preliminary report that points to a loss of control near the airport. The full National Transportation Safety Board report will take more time and will examine pilot actions, aircraft data, and other technical details. Final findings will clarify the official cause.