“He Was Just That Kind of Guy”: Carrie Underwood Honors the Legacy of Brett James
The world of country music is mourning the tragic loss of Brett James, the Grammy-winning songwriter best known for penning Carrie Underwood’s breakout hit, “Jesus, Take The Wheel.” At just 57 years old, James’ life was cut short in a devastating plane crash on September 18, 2025—leaving behind a legacy that will echo through every note he ever wrote.
Carrie Underwood, heartbroken by the news, shared a touching tribute that reflected not only her admiration for Brett’s talent, but the deep respect and affection she held for him as a friend and collaborator.
“Some things are just unfathomable,” she wrote. “The loss of Brett James… is too great to put into words.”
Alongside intimate photos of the two working together, she reminisced about their time in the studio—his effortless charm, the way he’d ride his motorcycle up to her cabin for writing sessions, his perfectly styled hair, and his uncanny ability to make even a “sassy girl anthem” like “Cowboy Casanova” sound cool coming from him.
But what stood out most in her memories wasn’t just his artistry—it was his integrity.
“I remember writing with him on a song that he basically wrote 75% of… I didn’t feel right splitting the credit evenly. He wouldn’t have it. He insisted everything be equal. He was just that kind of guy…”
Brett’s faith was a cornerstone of his life, and it bonded him with Carrie beyond the music. She shared how they sang together at church, and how the songs they wrote about Jesus would now carry even more weight in her heart.
“I won’t ever sing one note of them again without thinking of him.”
With hits for Kenny Chesney, Jason Aldean, Rascal Flatts, and many others, Brett James shaped the soundtrack of a generation. But for Carrie Underwood, and for the countless lives his songs touched, he was more than a songwriter—he was a rare soul who led with grace, humility, and heart.
His voice may be silent now, but his music—and the spirit behind it—will never fade.