The country music community is deeply shaken by the sudden passing of Brett James, a celebrated Nashville Songwriters Hall of Famer whose songwriting helped shape an entire era. Known especially for writing Carrie Underwood’s breakthrough hit “Jesus, Take the Wheel,” James tragically died in a plane crash on September 18 at the age of 57. The accident also claimed the lives of his wife, Melody Carole Wilson, and her daughter, Meryl. For Carrie Underwood, the news was especially heartbreaking. She took to Instagram the day after the crash to share a touching tribute that expressed both grief and admiration. She described Brett James as “the epitome of cool,” remembering how he would arrive on a motorcycle with his hair still perfect despite hours under…
