Brett James
An award-winning songwriter and producer who collaborated with A-list musicians.
It is with great sadness that we report that Brett James passed away in September 2025. James had an extraordinary career with more than 800 of his songs recorded by some of the world's top artists. His impressive songwriting has contributed to albums selling more than 110 million copies collectively. Among his numerous hit singles, James boasted 27 number ones and a Grammy win in 2006 for "Jesus, Take the Wheel." He earned the title of ASCAP's Country Songwriter of the Year in both 2006 and 2010 and was named Music Row Magazine's Songwriter of the Year in 2015. James had amassed more than 40 ASCAP awards spanning country, pop, Latin, and Christian music. His exceptional contributions were recognized in 2020 when he was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame.
As a producer, his work includes collaborations with Taylor Swift, Jessica Simpson, Danielle Bradbery, and Kip Moore. His industry influence extended beyond songwriting and producing; he served 18 years on the board of directors for the Country Music Association and had been a national trustee for The Recording Academy (Grammys). Additionally, he was a board member of the Nashville Songwriters Association International. James also owned Cornman Music, a thriving boutique publishing company.
The roster of artists who have recorded his songs is extensive, featuring Tim McGraw, Kenny Chesney, Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan, Keith Urban, Cody Johnson, Parker McCollum, Bon Jovi, Taylor Swift, Kelly Clarkson, Meghan Trainor, Carrie Underwood, Nick Jonas, Miranda Lambert, Steven Tyler, Kip Moore, Sheryl Crow, Colbie Caillat, Faith Hill, Martina McBride, Leona Lewis, Daughtry, The Fray, Dierks Bentley, Chris Young, Florida Georgia Line, Brantley Gilbert, Chicago, Backstreet Boys, will.i.am, James Arthur, Emeli Sandé, Paulina Rubio, Jake Owen, Rascal Flatts, and many more.
