Published by Cel Manero from Global One Media Inc.
The country singer delivered uncomfortable performances at The Liberty Ball during President Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20.
Billy Ray Cyrus is adjusting to the changes in his voice as he embraces a new normal.
An exclusive source shared with PEOPLE that the country singer’s vocal abilities are not what they once were, which has led to feelings of insecurity.
“His voice has changed, and it’s been something he’s felt self-conscious about,” the insider revealed about Billy Ray, 63, known for his 1992 hit “Achy Breaky Heart.”
The source further discussed Billy Ray’s performance at The Liberty Ball during President Donald Trump’s inauguration—a performance that received some criticism. Despite his reservations, Billy Ray chose to move forward with the set.
“He went out on stage with his changed voice, putting himself in a vulnerable position and showing the world how much it’s evolved,” they said.
During the inaugural event on January 20, Billy Ray faced technical issues while performing “Achy Breaky Heart” and his collaboration with Lil Nas X, “Old Town Road.”
At one point, Billy Ray, seemingly frustrated, asked, “Check? Is anybody awake?” as he looked for help backstage. “Y’all want me to sing more, or you want me to just get the hell off the stage?”
The next day, Billy Ray shared an exclusive statement with PEOPLE, saying, “I wouldn’t have missed the honor of playing this event, whether my microphone, guitar, and monitors worked or not. I was there because President Donald J. Trump invited me.”
He continued, “I had a blast at the Liberty Ball last night, and I’ve learned over the years that when the producer says, ‘You’re on,’ you go entertain the crowd, even if the equipment fails. I was there for the people, and we had a great time. That’s rock n roll!”
Billy Ray further defended his performance with an Instagram post on January 22, where he shared a video of his a cappella rendition of “Achy Breaky Heart,” along with a caption that read, “This was the most fun part of the Liberty Ball! And if you didn’t see it… you just had to be there. I just don’t think you understand.” He also turned off comments on the post.
Billy Ray wasn’t the only performer to face technical difficulties at the inauguration. Carrie Underwood also encountered issues when the music for her rendition of “America the Beautiful” glitched right before she took the stage in the Capitol rotunda. Despite this, Underwood, 41, encouraged the audience to sing along, telling them, “You know the words,” as she continued her performance a cappella.
On January 22, Trace Cyrus, Billy Ray’s adopted son, shared an emotional letter on Instagram, expressing his concerns for his father.
Trace, 35, began by recalling how he had always admired his dad, saying he was “obsessed” with him and thought he was “the coolest person ever.” He then wrote, “It seems this world has beaten you down and it’s become obvious to everyone but you. You may be upset with me for posting this but I really could care less at this point.”
In a message that seemed directed at his sisters Brandi Cyrus, Miley Cyrus, and Noah Cyrus, Trace explained that they were all “genuinely worried” about Billy Ray, who has, according to him, “pushed” them all away. Billy Ray also shares sons Christopher Cody Cyrus with ex-girlfriend Kristin Luckey and Braison Cyrus with his ex-wife Tish, whom he divorced in 2022.
“We are all hanging on to memories of the man we once knew & hoping for the day he returns. You’re not healthy Dad & everyone is noticing it,” Trace wrote. He ended the post by saying, “I don’t know what you’re struggling with exactly but I think I have a pretty good idea & I’d love to help you if you would open up and receive the help. You know how to reach me. Till that day comes I will continue to pray for you.”