Grammy-winning songwriter Brett James, known for writing hits like Carrie Underwood’s “Jesus, Take the Wheel,” died in a plane crash in Franklin, North Carolina. The small aircraft, registered under James’ legal name, crashed into a field, killing all three people on board. James, who collaborated with numerous megastars and had over 500 songs on albums selling over 110 million copies, was elected to the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2020. The National Transportation Safety Board is currently investigating the cause of the crash.
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Tom Lehrer, the famed satirical songwriter known for his witty and intellectual lampooning of various subjects, has passed away at the age of 97. Lehrer, who earned a mathematics degree from Harvard at a young age, crafted satirical songs that were performed in a musical style, and was cited as an influence by many contemporary musicians. Although his career produced a modest body of work, Lehrer’s impact was significant, and he later chose to return to his passion for math, teaching at universities like Harvard and UC Santa Cruz. In his later years, Lehrer granted the public permission to use his lyrics without any fees.
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Award-winning singer-songwriter Jill Sobule, known for her poignant and witty songs addressing social issues, died Thursday at age 66 in a house fire. Her career spanned over three decades, marked by hits like “Supermodel” and “I Kissed a Girl,” and encompassed twelve albums tackling complex themes such as LGBTQ+ rights and the death penalty. Sobule was celebrated for her independent spirit, notably fundraising to produce her own albums after experiencing setbacks with major labels. A memorial will be held later this summer to honor her life and impactful career.
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Kris Kristofferson, the legendary singer-songwriter and actor, has left an indelible mark on the world of music and entertainment. His gritty realism and raw talent brought a unique perspective to country music that resonated with audiences for decades. As I reflect on his incredible life and career, I can’t help but feel a sense of loss for the passing of such a multifaceted and accomplished individual.
From his early days as a high school prize-winning essayist to his time as a Rhodes Scholar and U.S. Army captain, Kris Kristofferson’s journey was nothing short of extraordinary. He seamlessly transitioned from military service to a successful music career, convincing Johnny Cash to record his songs and winning prestigious awards like Songwriter of the Year at the Country Music Association Awards.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker