Billy Ray Cyrus’ performance draws comparisons to A Star Is Born

Billy Ray Cyrus performance in President Donald TrumpThe inaugural Liberty Ball on January 20, 2025 has become a hot topic of discussion after a series of technical mishaps and his polarizing stage presence. The country music star struggled during his set as fans witnessed a performance that many described as chaotic.

While performing “Old Town Road”, Cyrus experienced an equipment malfunction that forced him to switch to an a cappella performance before requesting assistance from the backstage crew.

At one point, Billy Ray Cyrus was heard asking, “Is my guitar still on?” He expresses his frustration by asking, “Is anyone awake?”

The problems started midway through the performance when Cyrus noticed a problem with his guitar. “I don’t hear that? Do you all hear that?” He asked the crowd before turning towards the crew. “Is there anyone there? Can someone turn my guitar back on? We’ll sing a little more.”

In a moment of frustration, Cyrus joked about the situation and asked the audience, “Do you want me to sing more, or do you just want me to get off stage? I don’t care.” Eventually, a crew member came on stage to fix the problem, allowing him to resume the set.

Despite the difficulties, Cyrus tried to keep the audience engaged. “When you encounter technical difficulties, you have to keep working,” he said. “Or, as President Trump says, ‘You gotta fight!’

However, the performance continued to draw criticism from fans on social media, many of whom took issue with Cyrus’ raspy voice.

“Billy Ray Cyrus performing at Donald Trump’s inaugural Liberty Ball is an epic disaster,” one person wrote on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter.

Another commented: “Billy Ray Cyrus’ performance at the Liberty Ball was absolutely pathetic. Worst I’ve seen it in a while.” A third added: “Looks like Billy Ray Cyrus had more than just technical issues going on at the Liberty Ball now!”

Many TikTok users said his performance reminded them of Jackson Maine in “A Star Is Born,” adding that Billy Ray needs to go to rehab and get help.

One user said: “It’s so sad. Reminds me of that scene in A Star is Born when Bradley Cooper was on stage a mess.”

Another said: “Imagine him waking up today realizing what happened… The poor man needs help, where are his people.”

“It was so embarrassing to watch. I grew up a Billy Ray fan so I was a bit sad,” another person wrote.

The troubling comments continued to pour in, with one social media user expressing, “This broke my heart…it was so hurtful that day. It’s not funny, this guy needs help…so many prayers for him to get help.” Help!”

“It was so sad… pray for him,” another person wrote: “Oh wow… this is so sad on so many levels.”

The technical problems extended beyond Cyrus’ performance.

Earlier today, Carrie Underwood She faced similar difficulties when her backing track failed, forcing her to give an a cappella performance of “America the Beautiful”.

Unfazed, Underwood quickly assessed the situation and I decided to perform a cappella. With confidence and charm, she invited the audience to participate, saying: “If you know the words, help me here.”

Despite adapting to the situation, Underwood was reportedly frustrated by the inadequate performance preparation.