Tim McGraw Breaks Silence on Death of Iconic Country Songwriter: ‘So Heartbroken’

Country singer Tim McGraw broke his silence regarding the death of one of his songwriter collaborators, Brett James, with whom he worked throughout his long music career.

The Grammy-winning singer-songwriter died in a plane crash in North Carolina on Thursday, Sept. 18. He was 57. The National Transportation Safety Board is currently investigating the cause of the plane crash.

McGraw shared a tribute to James on Instagram on Sept. 19, posting a photo of the late songwriter posing with a guitar as he wrote, “So heartbroken to hear about the passing of Brett James.”

He went on, reflecting on his personal experience working with James, saying, “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.”

McGraw concluded the message with the caring sendoff, “Our family’s hearts go out to his family, friends and everyone who loved him,” likely referencing his wife, Faith Hill, and their three daughters, Gracie, Maggie and Audrey, as “our family.”

NASHVILLE, TN – NOVEMBER 05: Brett James performs during the 2013 CMA Songwriters Series at the CMA Theater on November 5, 2013 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Marianna Massey/WireImage)

Fans shared their condolences with McGraw in the comments, with many sharing his opinion on James’ songs being some of his best.

“Two of your best! Sorry for the loss,” said one such fan, as others replied, “Ahh Drugs or Jesus was always a favorite! I forgot he wrote that one. So sad to see this news!” and “Oh my gosh, so sorry. Telluride is one of my all time favorite songs.”

Another kind comment from a fan read, “So sorry. The joy I used to feel when I heard Telluride on the radio was amazing. Others must have felt the same since it got airplay despite not being a single. Brett wrote some amazing songs. RIP.”

Along with “Telluride” and “Drugs or Jesus,” James also worked on McGraw’s song “It’s a Business Doing Pleasure with You.” James was also behind a bunch of Carrie Underwood‘s biggest hits, including “Jesus, Take The Wheel,” “Cowboy Casanova,” and “Something in the Water.” The former earned James his only Grammy win for Best Country Song in 2007.

James also wrote “When the Sun Goes Down” and “Out Last Night” by Kenny Chesney, “Don’t Give Up on Me” and “The Truth” by Jason Aldean, and “Scars on This Guitar” and “What Do You Got?” by Bon Jovi, among other hits.

This story was originally reported by Parade on Sep 19, 2025, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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