Grammy nominated songwriter Busbee has died aged 43.
The producer and songwriter, who has worked with some of country music’s biggest names, had reportedly been diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of braun cancer, earlier this year.
Warner Chappell Music, with whom Busbee – real name Michael James Ryan – had a publishing deal with, released a statement on Sunday night confirming his passing.
They said: ‘Our hearts are broken by the loss of our beautiful friend busbee. He was an extraordinary human being whose generosity, spirituality and humor inspired everyone around him.
‘An amazingly gifted songwriter, he used his talent, his music, and his love to break down boundaries and bring people together. He left us far too soon. Our deepest condolences go to his wonderful family and all his many friends. We love you.’
Busbee was best known for his work with Maren Morris, Lady Anteblleum and Garth Brooks, while he wrote numerous songs on Keith Urban’s debut album Hero.
He also co-wrote the Florida Georgia Line hit H.O.L.Y.
However, he also worked with pop artists including Kelly Clarkson, Christina Aguilera, Pink and Shakira, in between making the move from jazz music to country.
Really beautiful moment tonight as the @jonasbrothers honored the late @busbee pic.twitter.com/ms2brLGK1U
— AustinLeach (@AustinLeach) September 30, 2019
This just doesn’t seem fair. I will always love you and the songs and albums I was lucky to make with you, Busbee. Rest well, my sweet friend. ? pic.twitter.com/9DKsU5G77a
— MAREN MORRIS (@MarenMorris) September 30, 2019
Maren Morris was the first to lead the tributes on social media, sharing a picture with Busbee and tweeting: ‘This just doesn’t seem fair. I will always love you and the songs and albums I was lucky to make with you, Busbee. Rest well, my sweet friend.’
Adam Lambert tweeted: ‘Shocked and saddened by the news today that we have lost Busbee. I am so grateful I was able to have collaborated with him. He was brilliant and warm, with palpable joy for his craft. RIP Sir.’
Meanwhile, the Jonas Brothers interrupted their show in Tulsa to honour the songwriter, saying: ‘If it’s alright, we’d like to take a moment to honour Mike Busbee, the late, great Mike Busbee, and his contribution to the world of music but specifically at this moment our music, with our song Feeling Alive.’
They proceeded to dedicate the track, which Busbee co-wrote, to the songwriter and his family.
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