Christian songwriter Bret James dies in plane crash

Christian songwriter Bret James, creator of "Jesus, Take the Wheel," has died in a plane crash.

Grammy-winning Christian artist Brett James has died in a plane crash in North Carolina at the age of 57, leaving the music community in mourning the loss of the creator of the inspirational anthem "Jesus, Take the Wheel."

The renowned Christian and country singer, who inspired millions around the world with his hit single "Jesus, Take the Wheel," died on September 18. The tragic incident occurred near the Macon County Airport in Franklin, and he was one of three victims of the crash of a small private plane registered in Tennessee under his legal name, Brett Cornelius, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.

James rose to fame with the song "Jesus, Take the Lead," performed by Carrie Underwood in 2005; a piece full of faith and hope that won a Grammy Award for Best Country Song.

A graduate of Christian Heritage Academy in Oklahoma, the songwriter incorporated spiritual messages and Christian themes into many of his works. Among his best-known works are his reworkings of old hymns such as "What Child Is This?" and "What a Friend We Have in Jesus."

James has released over 300 albums and received numerous awards during his prolific career. He was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2020 and has twice been named Country Songwriter of the Year by the American Society of Composers and Publishers (ASCAP).

The news of his passing has left the music community and Christian hymn lovers in deep sorrow. The memory and inspiring legacy of Bret James will live on in our hearts.