The country music world is mourning the sudden loss of Brett James Cornelius, a beloved songwriter, producer, and Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame member. James tragically died in a private plane crash in North Carolina on September 18, 2025. He was just 57 years old.
A Career That Shaped Modern Country Music
Over his three-decade career, Brett James became one of Nashville’s most respected and prolific songwriters. His work left an indelible mark on both country and pop music, with more than 500 songs recorded and an astonishing 27 No. 1 singles to his name.
Among his many achievements, James earned a Grammy Award for Carrie Underwood’s breakout hit “Jesus, Take the Wheel.” He was also twice named ASCAP’s Country Songwriter of the Year in 2006 and 2010, reflecting the consistency of his influence on the genre.
His hits were sung by nearly every major artist of the past 25 years: Rascal Flatts, Kenny Chesney, Chris Young, Jason Aldean, Martina McBride, Dierks Bentley, and more. In pop, his songs reached fans around the globe through Kelly Clarkson, Bon Jovi, Jessica Simpson, Paulina Rubio, and even the Backstreet Boys.
From Oklahoma Roots to Nashville Success
Born in Columbia, Missouri, and raised in Oklahoma, Brett James grew up in a deeply musical household. His father was both a physician and a singer, while his mother was a classically trained pianist. By his teens, James was playing guitar, piano, saxophone, and drums, often performing in church and youth groups.
After graduating from Baylor University, he began medical school at the University of Oklahoma. But music called louder than medicine, and in 1992 he made the bold move to Nashville to chase his dream.
James signed a record deal with Arista/Career in 1995 and released a self-titled debut album. While the project saw modest success, he soon discovered his true gift was behind the pen, not the microphone. In 1999, he briefly considered returning to medicine—until Faith Hill recorded his song “Love Is a Sweet Thing.” The song’s success changed everything, reigniting his songwriting career and setting him on the path to become one of Nashville’s most in-demand writers.
The Songs That Defined a Generation
James’ catalog reads like a greatest hits collection:
- “Who I Am” – Jessica Andrews
- “Blessed” – Martina McBride
- “Love You Out Loud” – Rascal Flatts
- “When the Sun Goes Down” – Kenny Chesney & Uncle Kracker
- “I Want to Live” – Josh Gracin
- “Jesus, Take the Wheel” – Carrie Underwood
- “Cowboy Casanova” – Carrie Underwood
- “The Truth” – Jason Aldean
- “It’s America” – Rodney Atkins
- “The Man I Want to Be” – Chris Young
- “Bottoms Up” – Brantley Gilbert
- “I Hold On” – Dierks Bentley
His versatility also brought him outside country: Kelly Clarkson’s “Mr. Know It All,” Paulina Rubio’s “Todo Mi Amor (The One You Love),” and Bon Jovi’s “Have a Nice Day” are just a few of the hits he helped create.
Beyond Songwriting: Mentor, Producer, Visionary
In addition to writing chart-toppers, James became a respected producer. He worked on albums such as Josh Gracin’s We Weren’t Crazy, Jessica Simpson’s Do You Know, and Kip Moore’s Up All Night.
He also founded Cornman Music, a publishing company that nurtured emerging talent and gave countless young writers a chance to build their careers.
In 2020, James released his own deeply personal album, I Am Now, showcasing his artistry beyond the writer’s room.
A Lasting Legacy
Inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2020, Brett James leaves behind not just a legacy of chart-topping hits but also a reputation as a mentor, friend, and guiding force in the music community. His generosity, creativity, and dedication helped shape Nashville into what it is today.
The CMA family remembered him as a “multiple-time CMA Triple Play Award winner” and celebrated his 17 years of service on the CMA Board of Directors. His contributions to both the industry and its people will never be forgotten.
Final Note
Brett James’ passing is a devastating loss for music lovers everywhere. His songs comforted us in heartbreak, lifted us in joy, and became the soundtrack to countless lives. Though his voice has been silenced, his music will continue to speak for generations.
✨ Rest in peace, Brett James. Nashville—and the world—will keep singing your songs.