Country music fans are mourning the loss of Brett James, a prolific songwriter whose iconic work helped shape modern country hits. Tragically, James passed away in a plane crash in North Carolina at the age of 57, just hours before Jason Aldean took the stage in Lincoln, Nebraska.
In a deeply emotional moment during his concert, Aldean shared the news with fans and paid tribute to his longtime friend. “This next song is one of the songs early on in my career that was a really big song for me… we got some sad news tonight. A longtime friend of ours, the guy that wrote this song, died in a plane crash today in North Carolina,” Aldean announced. He then performed “The Truth,” a heartfelt ballad co-written by James and Ashley Monroe, which became one of Aldean’s signature hits back in 2009.
Aldean didn’t stop there—he reflected on other songs that James contributed to his career, including “Two Night Town” and “Grown Woman.” After the show, Aldean shared his grief on social media:
“Heartbroken to hear of the loss of my friend Brett James tonight. I had nothing but love and respect for that guy and he helped change my life. Honored to have met him and worked with him. Thoughts and prayers going out to his family.”
Brett James: A Songwriting Legend
Brett James was a titan in the country music world, boasting over 800 recorded songs and more than 25 No. 1 hits to his name. His contributions to the genre include unforgettable tracks such as Carrie Underwood’s “Jesus, Take the Wheel” and “Cowboy Casanova,” Kenny Chesney’s “When the Sun Goes Down,” and Dierks Bentley’s “I Hold On.”
Known for his generosity and humility, James often shared songwriting credits, leaving a lasting impact on both artists and fans. His influence extended beyond Jason Aldean—other prominent artists including Dierks Bentley, Josh Gracin, Gary LeVox, and Sara Evans publicly paid tribute, celebrating both his talent and friendship.
The Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame confirmed James’s passing, marking a profound loss for the music industry. Yet, his legacy lives on through the timeless songs he crafted, which continue to resonate with country music lovers around the world.
Remembering a Musical Icon
Brett James’s career was defined by his ability to connect with listeners through unforgettable lyrics and melodies. While his sudden passing leaves a void in the country music community, his songs remain an enduring testament to his brilliance and generosity. Fans and fellow artists alike will forever remember Brett James not only for his music but also for the lasting impact he made on the hearts of those who knew him.