Busbee, Grammy-Nominated Songwriter and Producer, Dead at 41: Reports

Grammy-nominated songwriter and producer Busbee died at age 41, it was reported on Sept. 30.

The producer, whose real name is Michael James Ryan, was undergoing treatment for a type of brain cancer known as glioblastoma, Variety magazine reported.

Warner Records wrote on Facebook, in confirming his death, that “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,” it said.

He had worked with a broad range of artists such as Gwen Stefani, Pink, Maren Morris, Timbaland, Keith Urban, Jon Bellion, Kelly Clarkson, and Lady Antebellum.

Our hearts are broken by the loss of our friend busbee. His generosity, spirituality and humor inspired everyone around him. An amazingly gifted songwriter, he used his talent, music and love to break down boundaries and bring people together. We love you. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/nts8hsk9hE

— Warner Chappell Music (@WarnerChappell) September 30, 2019

“I absolutely can’t accept the loss of mine and [Gwen Stefani’s] friend Michael (Busbee)..Too much to say for social media,” Blake Shelton tweeted on Monday. “Too much pain and unfairness period. I guess sometimes you gotta dig extra EXTRA deep for peace to continue to have faith. And I will because Michael ALWAYS had faith.”

Maren Morris, whose song “My Church” got Busbee a Grammy nomination, also tweeted about his death.

“This just doesn’t seem fair,” she tweeted. “I will always love you and the songs and albums I was lucky to make with you, Busbee. Rest well, my sweet friend.”

I absolutely can’t accept the loss of mine and Gwen’s friend Michael (Busbee)..Too much to say for social media. Too much pain and unfairness period. I guess sometimes you gotta dig extra EXTRA deep for peace to continue to have faith. And I will because Michael ALWAYS had faith.

— Blake Shelton (@blakeshelton) September 30, 2019

“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,” wrote Adam Lambert.

Added Shakira: “Today an uncanny talent and unique soul has departed. Busbee you left us so early, but your music and your passion will be among us and forever cherished. My condolences to his family and the music community in Nashville.”