Trace Cyrus Shares Alarming Concerns About Billy Ray Cyrus

The country singer’s a cappella rendition of his 1992 hit “Achy Breaky Heart” drew mixed reactions, prompting him to address the criticism by sharing a video of the performance on Instagram.

On January 22, Trace shared an emotional open letter to Billy Ray Cyrus on Instagram.

Trace—who was adopted by Billy Ray in 1993 after his marriage to now ex-wife Tish Cyrus—described his complicated feelings toward his father, reflecting on the deep admiration he had for him as a child.

“Since my earliest memories, I was obsessed with you,” Trace wrote. “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 recognize now.”

Alongside a throwback photo of the two performing on stage, Trace expressed concern for his father’s well-being. “It seems this world has beaten you down, and it’s become obvious to everyone but you,” he continued. “You may be upset with me for posting this, but I really could care less at this point.”

Trace’s heartfelt post also highlighted the concerns shared by his siblings, including Brandi Cyrus, Miley Cyrus, and Noah Cyrus. “Me and the girls have been genuinely worried about you for years, but you’ve pushed all of us away,” Trace wrote. “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 idolizes you, though.”

Billy Ray also shares son Christopher Cody Cyrus with ex-girlfriend Kristin Luckey, and son Braison Cyrus, with Tish.

Trace further reflected on the family’s collective hope for Billy Ray’s return to health and happiness. “We are all hanging on to memories of the man we once knew and hoping for the day he returns,” he added. “You’re not healthy, Dad, and everyone is noticing it.”

Trace’s letter also included a personal note about his own journey.

“As I write this with tears in my eyes, I hope you realize this message only comes from a place of love and also fear that the world may lose you far too soon,” he shared. “We haven’t talked in a while, but I’m over a year and a 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 concluded his heartfelt post with a promise: “You know how to reach me. Till that day comes, I will continue to pray for you.”

During his performance of “Achy Breaky Heart” at President Donald Trump’s inaugural Liberty Ball, Billy Ray Cyrus encountered a series of technical difficulties, including issues with his guitar and microphone, which forced the country singer to improvise, ultimately leading him to perform the song a cappella. At one point, he removed the microphone from its stand and began speaking the lyrics rather than singing them, showcasing his determination to push through.

“Check? Is anybody awake?” Billy Ray quipped to the audience during the performance. “Y’all want me to sing more or you want me to just get the hell off the stage?” he continued, adding a humorous nod to the event’s host, “In life, when you have technical difficulties, you just gotta keep going, or as President Trump would say, ‘You gotta fight.’”

“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 said. “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!”