Trace Cyrus, the son of iconic country singer Billy Ray Cyrus, has issued a heartfelt plea to his father following what many considered to be a disastrous performance at President Donald Trump's Liberty Ball on January 20, 2021. The 63-year-old musician, known for his hit "Achy Breaky Heart," faced significant technical difficulties during his set, prompting scrutiny and concern for his well-being.
Following the performance, Trace, 35, took to Instagram to express his feelings, recalling fond memories of growing up idolizing his father. He poignantly wrote, "Since my earliest memories, all I can ever think is being obsessed with you and thinking you were the coolest person ever. I wanted to be just like you. The day you adopted me was the happiest day of my life." Yet, he added with sorrow, "Sadly the man I wanted so desperately to be just like I barely recognize now. It seems this world has beaten you down, and it’s become obvious to everyone but you."
The emotional outpouring painted a picture of not just familial love but also grave concern over Billy Ray’s mental and physical health. Trace described how his heartache spurred him to reach out, saying, "Me and the girls have been genuinely worried about you for years, but you’ve pushed all of us away." He particularly emphasized his sister Noah's desire for her father to be more involved, stating, "Noah desperately has wanted you to be part of her life, and you haven’t even been there for her. That’s your baby girl. She deserves more."
The performance at Trump's inauguration event left fans feeling uneasy, with some labeling it as one of the most cringe-worthy moments of recent entertainment history. Viewers noted Billy Ray's awkward stage presence, where his guitar appeared to be unconnected, and he seemed to mumble his way through songs including his remix of Lil Nas X's "Old Town Road" and his own classic, "Achy Breaky Heart." Some social media users voiced their concerns by calling it "a disaster" and the “cringiest few minutes” to have graced the stage.
Trace's plea continued, expressing both love and apprehension as he mentioned, "You’re not healthy, Dad, and everyone is noticing it. Just like I showed up for you at Mamaw’s funeral when you didn’t expect me to, I’m still here right now." This sentiment reverberated through the Cyrus family dynamics, illustrating the struggles faced over the years. This moment was not only about Trace's feelings but about restoring the bond fractured by years of distance and missed connections.
From Billy Ray's perspective, he remained ever the performer, quickly addressing the technical mishaps and defending his presence at the ball. He posted on Instagram, "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. I had a ball at the Liberty Ball last night, and I’ve learned through all these years when the producer says you’re on, you go entertain the folks even if the equipment goes to hell. I was there for the people, and we had a blast. That’s called rock n' roll!!!"
Despite his father's positive spin, the subtext of Trace’s message cuts deep, echoing many family struggles where love continues to battle with the fear of loss. His words, drenched with emotion, served as both reflection and determination: "I love you, Dad. We haven’t talked in a minute, but I’m over a year and half clean from alcohol. Guess what? I feel amazing. I don’t know what you’re struggling with exactly, but I think I have a pretty good idea, and I’d love to help you if you would open up and receive the help."
Trace's poignant plea to his father hopes to bridge the gap between them and heal the wounds of the past. The narrative of concern for Billy Ray aligned with his son's reflections indicates not just familial relations but the universal struggle of confronting loved ones who may be lost to the chaos of life. It emphasizes the need for open dialogue, healing, and the re-establishment of bonds often tested by time and circumstance.