brother Trace Cyrus has issued a bombshell statement on his dad Billy Ray Cyrus after his shaky performance at inauguration.
He’s worried about “losing his dad too soon” after a shaky performance – though Billy Ray put it all down to technical difficulties.
Billy Ray was one of the many country stars who performed at the event, alongside Carrie Underwood and Jason Aldean. But Billy Ray’s performance was branded “cringeworthy” by viewers as he took to the stage for a rendition of Achy Breaky Heart.
But he couldn’t hear his guitar and ended up singing a-cappella, begging the backstage crew: “Is anyone awake? I don’t hear it. Do y’all hear it?! Is anybody back there? Can somebody turn my guitar back on? We’re going to sing a bit more.”
His on-stage appearance was branded “concerning” by some fans – and now his adopted son Trace has spoken out.
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Billy Ray was forced to perform a-cappella (Image: Getty)
Trace is the biological son of Billy Ray’s ex Tish Cyrus from a previous relationship, and the singer adopted him when he was four years old.
Trace wrote on alongside a throwback snap of him and Billy Ray on stage: “Since my earliest memories all I can remember 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. Sadly the man that I wanted so desperately to be just like I barely recognise now.
“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.
“Me and the girls have been genuinely worried about you for years but you’ve pushed all of us away. Noah desperately has wanted you to be a part of her life and you haven’t even been there for her. That’s your baby girl. She deserves better. Somehow just like me she still idolises you though.
Billy Ray Cyrus adopted Trace when he was four years old (Image: Getty)
“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. Just like I showed up for you at mamaw’s funeral when you didn’t expect me to I’m still here right now.
“As I write this with tears in my eyes I hope you realise this message only comes from a place of love and also fear that the world may lose you far too soon. I love you Dad. We haven’t talked in a while 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 & 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. billyraycyrus.”
Billy Ray responded to fan concerns about the inauguration, explaining to People magazine: “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!!!”
Carrie Underwood’s performance was also affected by technical difficulties, forcing her to sing America the Beautiful a-cappella.
Express.co.uk has reached out to Billy Ray’s representatives for comment.