Grammy-winning songwriter Brett James dies in North Carolina plane crash

Grammy-winning country songwriter Brett James tragically died in a private plane crash in Franklin, North Carolina, along with two other passengers. James, who was 57 and inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2020, was widely mourned by music and sports communities, including ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit, who called him a humble and talented friend. James wrote hit songs for notable artists like Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood, and Kenny Chesney, and was twice named Country Songwriter of the Year by the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers. Fellow country artist Dustin Lynch remembered James as a mentor and inspiration, crediting him for encouraging his own songwriting and interest in flying. Authorities are investigating the cause of the crash, which occurred shortly after the plane departed from Nashville. Tributes highlight James's legacy as a respected figure on Music Row and his lasting impact on country music and those who knew him.