Christian Songwriter “Bert James” Dies in Plane Crash

“Bert James,” a Christian songwriter and creator of “Jesus, Take the Wheel,” died in a plane crash.

Bert James, a Christian artist and Grammy Award winner, died at age 57 in a plane crash in North Carolina, and the music community mourned the loss of the creator of the inspirational hymn “Jesus, Take the Wheel.”

This renowned Christian and country songwriter, whose famous work “Jesus, Take the Wheel” inspired millions of people around the world, passed away on September 18. This tragic incident occurred near Macon County Airport in Franklin, and according to the Federal Aviation Administration, he was one of three victims of a small private plane crash registered in Tennessee under his legal name “Bert Cornelius.”

James reached the peak of fame with the song “Jesus, Take the Wheel,” which was performed by “Carrie Underwood” in 2005; a piece filled with faith and hope that also won the Grammy Award for Best Country Song.

This songwriter, a graduate of Christian Heritage Academy in Oklahoma, incorporated spiritual messages and Christian themes into many of his works. Among his well-known works are recreations of classic hymns such as “What Child Is This?” and “What a Friend We Have in Jesus.”

Throughout his prolific musical career, James left behind more than 300 works and received numerous awards. He joined the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2020 and was named Songwriter of the Year for country music by the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) twice.

News of his death plunged the music community and fans of Christian hymns into deep sorrow. The inspiring legacy and memory of Bert James will remain alive in hearts forever.