Carrie Underwood is speaking out about the tragic loss of Brett James. James, the writer behind some of country music’s biggest hits, including Underwood’s “Jesus, Take the Wheel,” was killed in an airplane crash on Thursday, September 18.
“Some things are just unfathomable,” Underwood begins a lengthy post shared on social media. “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,'” she continues. “I see him in my mind riding up to my cabins to write on his motorcycle…his hair somehow perfectly coiffed despite being under a helmet for however long. I always loved hearing him sing ‘Cowboy Casanov’ because a sassy girl anthem should’ve sounded ridiculous coming from a macho dude like him, but somehow, he even made that cool.”
Underwood also recalls how generous James was when writing with Underwood, along with his undeniable talent.
“He was a good guy,” Underwood shares. “I remember writing with him on a song that he basically wrote 75 percent of and had ready when he walked in the room. We filled in the blanks and added a little melody and I told him after that I didn’t feel right splitting the credit evenly when he did most of the work. He wouldn’t have it. He insisted that everything be equal. He was just that kind of guy.”
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Carrie Underwood Shares Brett James’ Strong Christian Faith
Along with their talent as songwriters and their love of country music, Underwood and James also shared a strong Christian faith, faith that Underwood is relying on amid her overwhelming grief.
“Brett loved the Lord,” Underwood says. “Which is the only comfort we can hold on to now. We even had the pleasure of singing together at church. My favorite songs to sing of ours are the ones that he or we wrote about Jesus because the thoughts and feelings behind them are so genuine and pure. I won’t ever sing one note of them again without thinking of him.
“Brett’s passing is leaving a hole in all of us that I fear won’t ever go away,” she concludes. “It will forever be a reminder that this life is but a moment…we have to make the most of each day we’re given here on earth. Each day is a gift. 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.”
James was reportedly killed in the plane crash along with his wife and stepdaughter. He is survived by four adult children. Everything Nash extends our deepest condolences to his family.