2s. Carrie Underwood Honors 20 Years of ‘Jesus, Take the Wheel’ with Moving Tribute to Late Songwriter Brett James.2s

OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author’s opinion.

Twenty years after its release, Carrie Underwood took a moment to reflect on the song that launched her career and changed her life—Jesus, Take the Wheel. Marking the song’s 20th anniversary on October 18, Underwood shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, honoring not only the enduring impact of the song but also remembering one of its co-writers, Brett James, who tragically passed away just one month ago.

In her post, Underwood shared a touching video of herself performing Jesus, Take the Wheel, accompanied by a message recognizing the songwriters behind the timeless hit: Brett James, Hillary Lindsey, and Gordie Sampson. “This song changed my life and has meant so much to me over the years,” she wrote. “I’m truly blessed to be able to continue singing this beautiful song.”

The tribute took on an even deeper significance following the loss of Brett James, who died on September 18 in a small-plane crash in North Carolina along with his wife and stepdaughter. The 57-year-old Grammy-winning songwriter was a revered figure in country music, credited with shaping the genre’s modern sound through his work with artists like Taylor Swift, Kenny Chesney, Tim McGraw, Martina McBride, Faith Hill, and, of course, Carrie Underwood.

James’ contribution to Jesus, Take the Wheel was pivotal in defining Underwood’s early career, helping to cement her status as one of country music’s most powerful voices. In a poignant interview recorded just a week before his passing, James described how the song came together almost by chance during a writing session at co-writer Hillary Lindsey’s home. “We didn’t know who Carrie Underwood was,” he recalled. “We were just trying to write something we thought was a good song that day. Once in a while, you write a song that becomes bigger than all of you—and that song is one of those.”

The emotional power of Jesus, Take the Wheel resonated worldwide, and James often shared stories of fans approaching him after performances to express how the song had helped them through their own struggles. “Every time I play it, someone comes up and says, ‘I had a similar story in my life… I needed to hear that at that time,’” he said.

Since its release, Jesus, Take the Wheel has earned Underwood two Grammy Awards and become a defining track in her illustrious career. Even two decades later, its message of faith and surrender continues to touch hearts globally.

Fans of Underwood’s commemorative post echoed the song’s enduring impact. One fan wrote, “Watching you sing this and ‘How Great Thou Art’ back to back was the only time I’ve ever cried at a concert! So amazing!” Another added, “Man, those years went by so fast!!!!! Still one of my favorites.” Comments flooded in, calling the song “monumental,” “breathtaking,” and “one of the best songs in country music.”

Carrie Underwood’s anniversary tribute proves that Jesus, Take the Wheel is more than just a hit—it is a timeless anthem of hope and healing. For both the singer and the late Brett James, the song stands as a powerful reminder of music’s ability to change lives and offer comfort in difficult times.