Brett James

Brett James Cornelius (June 5, 1968 – September 18, 2025) was an American country music singer, songwriter, and record producer based in Nashville. James began his musical career in 1995 with a self-titled album on the former Arista Nashville's Career Records division, which charted three singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs charts. He re-signed with Arista Nashville early in the 21st century and charted two more singles which were not included on an album. In the beginning of the 21st century, James became known primarily as a songwriter for other country and pop music artists. Among his compositions is Carrie Underwood's number-one hit "Jesus, Take the Wheel", which received the Grammy Awards for Best Country Song and Best Female Country Vocal Performance. His writing credits include number-one hits for Jessica Andrews, Martina McBride, Kenny Chesney, Rodney Atkins and Jason Aldean. James, along with his wife and daughter, died in an airplane crash in North Carolina on September 18, 2025.