Billy Ray Cyrus’s son Trace made an emotional online plea after the country music star stumbled through his “train wreck” of a performance at the 2025 Liberty Ball, pleading with him to make better decisions because he worries “that the world may lose [Cyrus] far too soon.”

Reactions to Billy Ray Cyrus’ recent performance at President Donald Trump’s inauguration were not favorable.

On January 20, the 63-year-old country music icon, who is most known for his hit song “Achy Breaky Heart,” performed at the post-inauguration Liberty Ball. Regretfully, the evening didn’t go as expected.

Anticipation was high as Cyrus took the stage. Fans were not prepared for the iconic, foot-stomping spectacle that followed, though.

The singer tried to sing a few bars from “Old Town Road,” but his voice was more hoarse than the horse he was singing about, his guitar wasn’t strumming, and his microphone wasn’t on.

He hands his guitar to a stagehand after a few awkward moments in which he is seen fumbling with it, and then he begins snapping his fingers to an a cappella rendition of his 90s hit song, “Achy Breaky Heart.”

Cyrus’ performance lacked the energy and polish that fans and critics have come to expect from the seasoned performer. Technical issues only made things worse, resulting in a lackluster performance that left viewers perplexed.

Viewers swiftly took to social media to point out the shortcomings of his performance, which fell short of expectations at the politically charged event despite his best attempts to push through.

It was the worst performance I’ve ever seen. One internet user questions Cyrus’ dreary rendition of two classic songs, asking, “Was he drunk?” Another tweets, “He sounded terrible.” It isn’t a “tech issue.”

“Holy crap,” a third says. He has a terrible voice. He appears to be homeless. “How embarrassing,” says one, “but I feel sorry for him,” says another. It was difficult.

The internet erupted in criticism after Billy Ray Cyrus’s latest performance, labeling the event as “an epic disaster” and “a train wreck.” Amidst the negative feedback, one concerned fan implored, “From the bottom of all of our hearts, get help Billy Ray Cyrus. We love ya and your music.”

Unfazed by the harsh critiques, Cyrus enthusiastically recounted his experience at the Liberty Ball, an event he attended at the invitation of former President Donald Trump. He expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, regardless of technical issues with his equipment. “I had a ball at the Liberty Ball last night,” he posted on social media, adding, “That’s called rock n roll!!!”

In a heartfelt Instagram post accompanied by a nostalgic photo of him and his father on stage, Trace Cyrus, Billy Ray’s adopted son, shared a different perspective. Trace reminisced about his admiration for his father from a young age and his desire to emulate him. However, he expressed concern over his father’s current state, noting, “Sadly the man that 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.”

Trace highlighted the family’s growing worry, particularly mentioning his sister Noah’s longing for their father’s presence in her life. He urged his father to acknowledge his health issues, writing with emotional candor about his fears of losing him prematurely. Trace revealed his own struggles and sobriety, hoping to reconnect with his father and help him.

The unfolding drama leaves fans and the public speculating about Billy Ray Cyrus’s next steps. Will he heed his son’s heartfelt plea for help and reconnect with his family, or will he continue on his troubled path? The love and concern from his family loom large, hinting at a critical crossroads in the singer’s life.