Country superstar Jason Aldean is mourning the heartbreaking loss of his close friend and collaborator, Brett James, who passed away on Sunday night.

Aldean shared an emotional tribute on social media, expressing his deep grief over the loss of the award-winning songwriter and producer.

“Heartbroken to hear of the loss of my friend Brett James tonight. I had nothing but love and respect for that guy and he helped change my life. Honored to have met him and worked with him. Thoughts and prayers going out to his family. 💔,” Aldean wrote.

Brett James was one of the most respected figures in the country music industry, known for penning numerous chart-topping hits for artists like Carrie Underwood, Kenny Chesney, Jason Aldean, and Tim McGraw. Over the years, he played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of modern country music.

Aldean credited Brett with helping launch his career, saying James’ influence left a lasting mark on his music and his life.

The news of James’ passing has sparked an outpouring of condolences from fans and fellow country stars, who are remembering him as not only a brilliant songwriter but also a kind and generous soul.

Our thoughts are with Brett James’ family, friends, and the country music community during this difficult time.

Who Was Brett James?

Brett James was a renowned songwriter who was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2020. He was also a two-time recipient of the ASCAP Country Songwriter of the Year Award (2006 and 2010).

James earned his first No. 1 hit in 2001 with Jessica Andrews’ “Who I Am.” Other songs that he either wrote or co-wrote include Carrie Underwood’s “Something In The Water,” “Jesus, Take The Wheel” and “Cowboy Casanova,” Kenny Chesney’s “When The Sun Goes Down,” “Out Last Night,” and “Keg In the Closet”), “I Hold On” by Dierks Bentley, “The Truth” by Jason Aldean, and Rascal Flatts’ “Summer Nights.”

“Jesus, Take The Wheel” earned James a Grammy for Best Country Song in 2006 and trophies for ACM Single of the Year, ASCAP Country Song of the Year, and NSAI Song of the Year.

Brett James had hundreds of songs recorded on major labels over the course of his career, resulting in 27 #1 hits.