In a heartbreaking turn of events, Grammy-winning songwriter Brett James, renowned for co-writing the iconic 2005 anthem "Jesus, Take the Wheel," has tragically lost his life in a plane crash in North Carolina.

The fatal incident occurred when a single-engine Cirrus SR22T, carrying James and two other passengers, went down in a wooded area near Macon County Airport. While the circumstances surrounding the crash remain unclear, flight data reveals the plane had just departed from an airport in Nashville.

At 57 years old, James left a significant mark on the music industry. His celebrated collaboration on "Jesus, Take the Wheel," recorded by Carrie Underwood and recognized with a Grammy for Best Country Song, solidified his legacy. Underwood expressed her deep sorrow, calling his passing "unfathomable" and reflecting on the genuine emotions behind their faith-based songs.

Underwood emotionally shared, "Brett was the epitome of 'cool'. My favorite songs to sing of ours are the ones that he or we wrote about Jesus because the thoughts and feelings behind them are so genuine and pure. I won't ever sing one note of them again without thinking of him. His absence creates a void that will never truly go away."

Beyond his iconic work with Underwood, James wrote for a diverse array of artists, including Taylor Swift, Kelly Clarkson, Bon Jovi, and Jason Aldean. Aldean, who recorded the song "The Truth" penned by James, spoke of his grief, stating, "I had nothing but love and respect for that guy. He helped change my life. Honored to have met him and worked with him. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family."

Paul Williams, president of the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP), hailed James as "a songwriting force of nature," noting that he composed over 500 songs spanning various genres. Williams remarked, "He wrote big hits but had an even bigger heart."

James' illustrious career included his 2020 induction into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame and numerous accolades, including being named ASCAP Songwriter of the Year in both 2006 and 2010.

The National Transportation Safety Board is set to investigate the details surrounding the crash, bringing attention to the tragic loss of a prolific and beloved songwriter.