busbee, 1976-2019

The biz was met with the heartbreaking news Sunday that songwriter/producer busbee had died of a very aggressive form of brain cancer. He was 43.

Busbee, aka Michael James Ryan, was known for his work with Maren Morris, P!nk, Little Big Town, Florida Georgia Line and many others.

Those of us who had the privilege of knowing busbee know that in addition to being a madly gifted creator, he was also a true gentleman—a mensch of the highest order, compassionate, thoughtful and relentlessly positive.

Among his co-writes was Florida Georgia Line’s chart-topper “H.O.L.Y.,” Garth Brooks’ #1 “People Loving People,” Lady Antebellum’s “You Look Good,” and Keith Urban and Carrie Underwood’s “The Fighter.” His work with Morris included “My Church,” “80s Mercedes” and “Once.”

He’s survived by his wife and three children.

Aaron Bay-Schuck and Tom Corson, who inked a JV deal with busbee for his Altadena music company in 2018, issued the following statement.

Dear All - Today we lost busbee, a dear friend, business partner with his company Altadena, and one of the best and brightest creative minds in music. busbee’s kindness and legacy will never be forgotten and our hearts and prayers go out to his family at this very difficult time.

With Love and Respect, Aaron, Tom, and his Warner Records Family

Guy Moot, Carianne Marshall, Ben Vaughn, Ryan Press, Katy Wolaver and The team at Warner Chappell also sent out a message in memoriam:

“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.”

- Guy, Carianne, Ben, Ryan, Katy and the Warner Chappell family

Revisit busbee's May 2018 And The Writer Is... episode.

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