When the Nashville community learned of Grammy-winning songwriter Brett James’ tragic death in a small plane crash at age 57, tributes began pouring in from some of country music’s biggest stars — including Tim McGraw, Carrie Underwood and even American Pickers host Mike Wolfe.
Tim McGraw’s Emotional Tribute
McGraw, who worked closely with James over the years, shared that his family is “heartbroken” over the loss.
“So heartbroken to hear about the passing of Brett James. Brett was one of the most talented and most respected songwriters in Nashville and wrote some of my personal favorite songs I ever recorded, ‘Telluride’ and ‘Drugs or Jesus.’ Our family’s hearts go out to his family, friends and everyone who loved him,” writes McGraw.
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Wolfe, who has become close with McGraw in recent years, appeared in the comments of McGraw’s post to quietly share his support.
“So sorry for your loss my friend ❤️🙏,” Wolfe wrote.
The simple message resonated with fans, many of whom appreciated seeing the crossover between the American Pickers star and one of country music’s biggest names.
Carrie Underwood, Rascal Flatts and More Remember Brett James
Underwood’s tribute was even longer and more personal. She recalled James’ generosity in songwriting sessions, his cool factor, and his faith.
“Some things are just unfathomable. The loss of Brett James to his family, friends and our music community is too great to put into words.
Brett was the epitome of ‘cool’ … He was a good guy … Brett loved the Lord. Which is the only comfort we can hold on to now.”
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She closed her post with a heartfelt promise:
“Brett’s passing is leaving a hole in all of us … I’m asking all of you to pray for his family, friends and all of us that were blessed enough to know Brett. Love you, man. I’ll see you again someday.”
Country trio Rascal Flatts wrote, “Sending our heartfelt condolences to the family of our dear friend Brett James. A brilliant songwriter and amazing man. He was the pen behind “Summer Nights”, “Love You out Loud”, and countless songs we’ve all sang along too. He will be greatly missed,” and their lead singer, Gary LeVox, wrote a lengthy memorial on his personal Instagram:
One of the legends of songwriting and amazing singer, but a better friend passed yesterday. My God, how many prayers from myself and my family are covering Brett James and his family and extended family and friends right now.
Brett and I have written at least 15 songs together. Every time was over coffee and what melodies yall would wanna hear. Just kills me!!
We wrote “Summer Nights” together and he wrote another Rascal Flatts song early on, that I know yall liked called “LOVE U OUT LOUD!” We’re all loving u out loud, BJ. I will miss u and r talks and texts and melodies and laughs. We wrote a lot about where you’re standing now.
I know it’s gotta be better than what we tried to come up with. I love u and will miss u!
A Lasting Legacy
James leaves behind an extraordinary catalog of hits, from Underwood’s “Jesus, Take the Wheel” to McGraw’s “Telluride” and even songs recorded by Taylor Swift, Martina McBride, Kenny Chesney, Kelly Clarkson and more. His influence spanned decades, and his impact on both artists and fans will not be forgotten.
This story was originally reported by Parade on Sep 20, 2025, where it first appeared in the Celebs section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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