In a devastating turn of events, renowned Nashville songwriter Brett James, 57, tragically lost his life in a plane crash on Thursday afternoon in Franklin, North Carolina. The crash claimed the lives of all three individuals on board, including James’s wife, Melody Carol Wilson, and her stepdaughter, Meil Wilson, 28. This shocking incident has sent shockwaves through the music community, as tributes pour in for the man behind Carrie Underwood’s iconic hit “Jesus Take the Wheel.”
At approximately 3:30 PM on September 18, 2025, the Cirrus SR22T, piloted by James, went down just a few hundred meters from Mon County Airport. Preliminary reports from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) indicate that the aircraft did not send out an emergency signal, nor was there any evidence of fire or explosion prior to the crash. Eyewitnesses described the moment as a rapid descent into chaos, with one local employee noting an unusually loud engine noise just before impact.
Flight data reveals that James had been in contact with air traffic control, requesting permission for a visual approach. However, shortly after initiating a 360-degree turn—a maneuver typically used to adjust altitude—the plane spiraled out of control and crashed at high speed. All three victims were found in the cabin, secured in their seatbelts, raising questions about what went wrong in those final moments.

Known for his warm personality and profound contributions to country music, Brett James had been a licensed pilot since 2015, frequently flying his family between Nashville and North Carolina. Despite a minor incident in 2012 involving an old training plane, he was regarded as an experienced aviator who embraced flying as an escape from the pressures of his career.
James’s life story is one of resilience and reinvention. After a tumultuous beginning in the music industry, he became a celebrated songwriter, crafting hits for numerous artists and earning Grammy accolades. His personal life took a positive turn when he met Melody in 2020, and they married in 2021, creating a blended family that seemed to flourish. Just two days before the fateful flight, James shared a heartfelt tribute on social media celebrating his stepdaughter’s birthday, encapsulating his deep appreciation for family.
As investigations continue, the music world mourns the loss of a talented artist who touched countless lives. The circumstances surrounding this tragic accident raise urgent questions about aviation safety and the unexpected perils that can emerge even for seasoned pilots. The legacy of Brett James, both in music and as a family man, will undoubtedly endure, but the shock of his sudden death leaves an indelible mark on those who knew and loved him. Further updates will follow as authorities continue to investigate the cause of this heartbreaking tragedy.