Birthday Boy Billy Ray Cyrus Wins Respect of Musicians

With the release of "Achy, Breaky Heart" in 1992, Billy Ray Cyrus was forced  to endure slings and arrows from both music reviewers and his peers, many of whom argued that the single and Cyrus himself were one-hit novelties.  Travis Tritt criticized Cyrus for reducing country music to an "ass wiggling contest." Waylon Jennings,  in 1993, during a pre-performance JumboTron interview at Country Jam in Mack, Colorado, publicly stated his estimates of Cyrus' lack of talent. However, through it all, Cyrus won and has maintained the respect of many musicians and industry executive, largely due to his sense of loyalty and ethics.

Las Vegas performer, session musician, and radio station owner Dan McClaslin said, "that guy paid his dues all the way," referring to Cyrus' rise to fame.  With that statement, McCaslin referred to Billy Ray's long-term hard work during the day, selling cars, and other means of survival, accompanied by his performing 5-nights a week at area clubs.  While working a house gig in Huntington, West Virginia, Cyrus made the 6-hour trek to Nashville a total of 42 times in hopes someone would give him a listen .

When fame finally came knocking, Cyrus' gained attention from musicians and execs for a very unorthodox demand.  Rather than using session musicians to record his first album, Cyrus insisted his band of some years, Sly Dog, be utilized for the job.

Billy Ray will celebrate his 52nd birthday on Saturday, August 25th.