Billy Ray Cyrus recently opened up about his memorable performance during Donald Trump’s presidential inauguration in 2017, shedding light on the technical difficulties he faced on stage. Despite the setbacks, the country music icon emphasized that the honor of performing far outweighed any challenges.
Speaking exclusively to PEOPLE, Cyrus revealed that his equipment malfunctioned during the event, a mishap that could have derailed the performance. “My microphone, guitar, and monitors all went to hell,” he shared candidly. “But I wouldn’t have missed the honor of playing this event whether my equipment worked or not.”
A Day of Challenges
Cyrus performed at the “Make America Great Again! Welcome Celebration,” a pre-inauguration concert held at the Lincoln Memorial. The event featured a lineup of performers, including Toby Keith, 3 Doors Down, and Lee Greenwood.
For Cyrus, the technical issues began as soon as he stepped on stage. His guitar malfunctioned, and he struggled to hear himself due to monitor problems. Despite these challenges, Cyrus powered through, showcasing the professionalism and resilience that have defined his decades-long career.
The country star described the experience as both frustrating and exhilarating. “When you’re in the moment, you just have to keep going,” he explained. “It’s not about perfection; it’s about connection. And I connected with the crowd that day.”
Embracing the Honor
Cyrus, known for hits like “Achy Breaky Heart,” emphasized that performing at the inauguration was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity he couldn’t pass up. “I had a ball,” he said. “It’s not every day you get to play in such a historic setting, no matter the circumstances.”
Reflecting on his decision to participate, Cyrus noted that his focus was on bringing people together through music. “Music transcends politics,” he said. “It’s about unity and creating a moment that people can hold onto, regardless of their views.”
Fans and Critics
Cyrus’ participation in the event was met with mixed reactions at the time. While many fans praised his performance, others criticized him for performing at an event associated with the Trump administration.
Addressing the backlash, Cyrus maintained that his decision was based on his commitment to his craft and the value of celebrating America’s traditions. “I’ve always believed in using music to inspire and unite,” he stated. “That’s what I set out to do, and I hope I achieved that.”
Now, years later, Cyrus regards the experience as a defining moment in his career. “You learn to roll with the punches,” he said, reflecting on the challenges he faced that day. “Performing live is unpredictable, but that’s what makes it so special.”
As he continues to tour and create new music, Cyrus remains grateful for the opportunity to have been part of a historic occasion. “No matter what went wrong, the memories I made that day will last forever,” he concluded.