Busbee, Producer and Songwriter Who Worked With Maren Morris, Keith Urban + More, Dies

Michael James Ryan, known professionally as Busbee, has died, according to social media posts from several of his collaborators. One of Nashville's most in-demand industry talents, he was a producer and songwriter who worked with numerous country stars, including Maren Morris, Keith Urban, Florida Georgia Line, Little Big Town, Carly Pearce, Lady Antebellum and many more. He was 43 years old.

Morris was among the first to share the news of Busbee's death. The two worked together extensively on her debut studio album, 2016's Hero. In addition to his role as producer, he co-wrote four of the project's tracks: "Once," "'80s Mercedes," "How it's Done" and Morris' breakout hit, "My Church." Busbee also served as co-producer (alongside the singer as well as Greg Kurstin) for her 2019 sophomore album, Girl.

"This just doesn't seem fair," Morris wrote on Twitter, alongside a black-and-white photo of the two together. "I will always love you and the songs and albums I was lucky to make with you, Busbee. Rest well, my sweet friend."

On Instagram, Pearce also shared a post in remembrance of Busbee, who co-wrote her debut single, "Every Little Thing," along with a number of other songs the singer recorded. "You gave my music a place in this world," Pearce explained. "I'll cherish the two albums, songs, talks, laughs & memories we shared over the years. My heart is broken, but the legacy of your talents and your heart will live on in all the artists and people you touched."

Busbee leaves behind a family, including three children. The cause of death was an aggressive form of brain cancer, glioblastoma -- a diagnosis that he had received just a few months before his death.

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