Billy Ray Cyrus Speaks Out After Messy Inauguration Ball Performance

Technical issues led to Billy Ray Cyrus’ haphazard performance at the Liberty Ball during Donald Trump’s presidential inauguration and on Tuesday (January 21), the star responded to the criticism.

“I would not have missed the honor of participating in this event whether my microphone, guitar and monitors worked or not. I was there because President Donald J. Trump invited me,” Cyrus said. People in a statement after the performance. “I had a great time at the Liberty Ball last night and I’ve learned over all these years, when the producer says, ‘Here we go,’ you have to entertain people even if the equipment goes to hell. I was there for the people and we had a great time. It’s called rock n roll!!!

In the video of the Jan. 20 performance, Cyrus began strumming her electric guitar after playing the video intro to Lil Nas X’s No. 1 Billboard Hot 100 hit, “Old Town Road,” on the screen behind him. He seemed confused as he attempted to play guitar and sing, both of which ended up being inaudible.

After singing the song a cappella, Cyrus tried to get the audience to applaud, explaining, “They told me to kill as much time as possible.” As the silence persisted, he asked the crowd, “Do you want me to sing more or do you just want me to leave the stage?” I don’t care.

He then asked, “Is my guitar still on?” I think they interrupted me. I can’t hear my guitar anymore. Looking around for help, while saying “check” into his microphone, Cyrus said, “Is anyone awake?” I don’t hear it. Do you all hear that? Where is everyone? Check. Is there anyone there? Can someone turn my guitar back on? We’re going to sing a little more.

A guitar technician then unsuccessfully attempted to resolve the technical issue, before Cyrus asked his fans to “snap their fingers” as he sang part of “Achy Breaky Heart” a cappella before leaving the stage.