United States: a world figure in music loses his life in a plane crash

James was widely respected in the country and pop music scenes for his work as a songwriter and producer. Over his decades‑long career, he helped craft dozens of hit songs recorded by major artists, earning industry accolades including multiple Grammy Awards. His contributions to such hits as “Jesus, Take the Wheel” made him a celebrated figure in Nashville and beyond.

The small Cirrus SR22T aircraft, registered to James, crashed in a rural area adjacent to the Macon County Airport in the early afternoon. Officials from the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board are investigating the cause of the accident, which occurred shortly after takeoff from a nearby airport.