FRANKLIN, N.C. — Acclaimed songwriter Brett James, whose career spanned more than two decades and included hundreds of hits in both country and pop music, was among three people killed in a small plane crash in western North Carolina on Thursday afternoon.

The Crash

The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed that a Cirrus SR22T aircraft went down in a field near Macon County Airport in Franklin at approximately 3 p.m. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) reported the crash site was adjacent to the airport and within close proximity to Iotla Valley Elementary School. Officials said no students or staff were harmed.

Also killed in the crash were Melody Carole and Meryl Maxwell Wilson, both residents of Tennessee, according to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol. Authorities confirmed no additional passengers were on board.

Investigators from the NTSB were at the scene Friday documenting evidence and examining the aircraft, which will be transported to a facility for further analysis. The cause of the crash has not yet been determined.

Brett James’ Legacy

Born in Columbia, Missouri, Brett James (57) was a towering figure in Nashville’s songwriting community. Over the course of his career, he penned or co-wrote songs for artists including Martina McBride, Kenny Chesney, Jason Aldean, and Carrie Underwood.

His most celebrated work, Underwood’s “Jesus, Take the Wheel,” won Grammy Awards for Best Country Song and Best Female Country Vocal Performance, cementing his reputation as one of Nashville’s most gifted songwriters.

In 2020, James was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, an honor recognizing his decades of contributions to the craft.

Tributes Pour In

“We are devastated by the loss of our longtime friend, Brett James,” said Mike Severson, founder and CEO of Songwriter City. “For more than 30 years, we had the privilege of knowing Brett not only as one of the most accomplished songwriters of our time, but as a kind, genuine, and joyful human being.”

James’ songs have touched millions, blending storytelling with emotional depth in a way that made him a sought-after collaborator across genres. His death leaves a significant void in the music industry.

Continuing Investigation

The NTSB has taken the lead in investigating the crash. Officials said the aircraft wreckage would be removed from the site by Saturday for a detailed evaluation. A final report on the cause is expected in the coming months.

For now, the music world is mourning the sudden loss of a songwriter whose words and melodies defined a generation of country music.