Billy Ray Cyrus faces backlash over Donald Trump's inauguration performance

Billy Ray Cyrus faced backlash on social media following a technically challenged performance at the Liberty Ball, held at the Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C., during President Donald Trump’s inauguration.

The 62-year-old country singer struggled with technical issues throughout his set, including difficulties with his guitar, prompting him to repeatedly address the stage crew. “Is my guitar still on? I think they cut me off. I don’t hear my guitar anymore,” Cyrus was overheard saying during the performance.

According to Daily Mail, at one point, visibly frustrated, Cyrus asked the audience, “Y’all want me to sing more or just want me to get the hell off the stage? I don’t give a damn.”

After the issues were resolved, Cyrus attempted to rally, stating, “When you have technical difficulties, you’ve got to just keep going—or as President Trump would say, you’ve got to fight!”

However, the mishaps continued. In one awkward moment, Cyrus’ silhouette could be seen wandering the stage as music played in the background, drawing comparisons to lip-syncing scandals, as per the publication.

Moreover, Cyrus took to his Instagram and posted pictures from the occasion with a short caption which said, "Honored to kick off the Liberty Ball at the request of our 47th President and Commander-in-Chief @realdonaldtrump. When you get knocked down, you get back up. You fight and persevere."

Social media users were quick to criticize, with one calling it “possibly the cringiest few minutes in entertainment history” and another labeling the performance “a trainwreck.”

Even supporters of President Trump expressed disappointment, with one user writing, “This is a disgrace to our President and our country—get off the stage.”

Meanwhile, others mocked the situation, jokingly asking if Trump could “pardon Billy Ray Cyrus for this performance.”

Despite the criticism, Cyrus attempted to remain upbeat, but the performance left many questioning his preparation and professionalism.