Trace Cyrus, the son of country music star Billy Ray Cyrus, has voiced significant concerns for his father's health and well-being following a questionable performance at President Donald Trump's inauguration festivities. In an emotional letter posted on Instagram, Trace revealed that he and his siblings, including pop sensations Miley and Noah Cyrus, have been "genuinely worried" about their father for years.

Trace's worry escalated after Billy Ray's chaotic performance at the Liberty Ball, which was marred by numerous technical difficulties and characterized by erratic behavior on stage. He reportedly sang without music at one point, expressed confusion regarding his guitar's audio, and even joked to the audience about his performance saying, "Y'all want me to sing more, or you just want me to get the hell off the stage?" According to reports from Newsweek and HuffPost, fans reacted negatively on social media, criticizing the standard of the performance.

In his heartfelt Instagram message, Trace expressed nostalgia for the father he once idolized, lamenting, "Sadly the man that I wanted so desperately to be just like I barely recognize now." He emphasized the impact of his father's struggles, stating that it is painfully apparent to everyone around him, urging Billy Ray to seek help, saying, "You're not healthy Dad & everyone is noticing it." Trace, who has been sober for over a year, offered his support with the hope that his father might open up to him.

While Trace laid bare his concerns for family relationships, he indicated a longing for their father to reconnect, particularly with Noah, whom he called "your baby girl." His passion was evident as he wrote, "We are all hanging on to memories of the man we once knew & hoping for the day he returns." This heartfelt plea aligns with familial sentiments shared earlier by Billy Ray’s daughters, underscoring a deep concern for the singer's mental health following his troubled performance.

Despite this backlash and concern from his family, Billy Ray responded with a defiant attitude, stating in interviews, "I wouldn't have missed the honor of playing this event whether my microphone, guitar and monitors worked or not," and emphasized the importance of putting on a show regardless of the "technical difficulties" faced.

As the fallout from the inauguration performance continues, Trace remains hopeful for reconciliation, framing his plea as stemming from love: "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. I love you Dad." The family's collective concern for Billy Ray is a reminder of the complexities of celebrity life and the underlying issues often masked by fame.

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