Billboard Looks at 13 Brett James-Written Songs That Reached the Pinnacle of the Hot Country Songs Chart After His Death at Age 57
The country music industry is mourning the loss of one of its most talented songwriters, Brett James, who passed away this week at the age of 57. James was known for his powerful lyrics and his ability to capture the essence of country music in his songs. In honor of his legacy, Billboard is taking a look at 13 of his most iconic songs that reached the top of the Hot Country Songs chart after his death.
1. “Jesus, Take the Wheel” by Carrie Underwood
One of James’ most well-known songs, “Jesus, Take the Wheel” was co-written with Gordie Sampson and Hillary Lindsey. The song was released in 2005 and became Underwood’s first number one hit on the Hot Country Songs chart. It also won a Grammy for Best Female Country Vocal Performance.
2. “Blessed” by Martina McBride
Another collaboration with Sampson and Lindsey, “Blessed” was released in 2001 and reached the top of the Hot Country Songs chart. The song’s uplifting message and powerful vocals from McBride made it a fan favorite.
3. “Out Last Night” by Kenny Chesney
In 2009, James teamed up with Chesney to write “Out Last Night,” which became the country star’s 14th number one hit on the Hot Country Songs chart. The song’s catchy chorus and relatable lyrics made it a hit with fans.
4. “When the Sun Goes Down” by Kenny Chesney and Uncle Kracker
James’ collaboration with Chesney and Uncle Kracker, “When the Sun Goes Down,” topped the Hot Country Songs chart in 2004. The song’s laid-back vibe and fun lyrics made it a summer anthem for country music fans.
5. “Cowboy Casanova” by Carrie Underwood
Released in 2009, “Cowboy Casanova” was co-written by James and became Underwood’s second number one hit on the Hot Country Songs chart. The song’s sassy lyrics and Underwood’s powerful vocals made it a fan favorite.
6. “The Truth” by Jason Aldean
In 2009, James co-wrote “The Truth” with Ashley Monroe and Aldean. The song reached the top of the Hot Country Songs chart and became Aldean’s fourth number one hit. Its emotional lyrics and Aldean’s heartfelt delivery resonated with fans.
7. “Outta My Head” by Craig Campbell
James’ collaboration with Campbell, “Outta My Head,” reached the top of the Hot Country Songs chart in 2010. The song’s catchy melody and relatable lyrics made it a hit with country music fans.
8. “Summer Nights” by Rascal Flatts
In 2009, James co-wrote “Summer Nights” with Gary LeVox, Joe Don Rooney, and Danny Orton. The song became Rascal Flatts’ 11th number one hit on the Hot Country Songs chart and was a summer anthem for fans.
9. “It’s America” by Rodney Atkins
James teamed up with Atkins to write “It’s America,” which reached the top of the Hot Country Songs chart in 2009. The song’s patriotic message and catchy chorus made it a favorite among country music fans.
10. “I Hold On” by Dierks Bentley
In 2014, James co-wrote “I Hold On” with Bentley, which became his 11th number one hit on the Hot Country Songs chart. The song’s powerful lyrics and Bentley’s emotional delivery struck a chord with fans.
11. “I Don’t Dance” by Lee Brice
Released in 2014, “I Don’t Dance” was co-written by James and became Brice’s second number one hit on the Hot Country Songs chart. The song’s romantic lyrics and Brice’s smooth vocals made it a wedding favorite.
12. “I Love This Life” by LoCash
In 2015, James co-wrote “I Love This Life” with Chris Lucas and Preston Brust of LoCash. The song reached the top of the Hot Country Songs chart and became a feel-good anthem for country music fans.
13. “Hell on the Heart” by Eric Church
James’ collaboration with
