For years, fans watched Billy Ray Cyrus navigate public highs and painful personal lows. Now, the country star is opening up like never before about the darkest chapter of his life — and how he found his way back.
In a deeply personal interview, Cyrus revealed that there was a period when he genuinely didn’t know if he would ever make music again. Following the death of his mother, multiple relationship struggles, serious health issues, and ongoing family tensions, he found himself at what he describes as a true “low point.”
The challenges became so severe that Cyrus says he nearly died after developing sepsis in 2024. The illness left him hospitalized and eventually led to vocal paralysis, creating fears that he might never be able to sing again. For a man whose life has revolved around music for decades, the possibility was devastating.
But according to Cyrus, one simple phrase changed everything.
His grandson Bear reportedly told him, “Try again.”
The words struck a deep emotional chord and became a source of motivation during one of the most difficult periods of his recovery. Cyrus says that moment helped inspire a new outlook on life, family, and music.
Today, things look very different.
The singer is preparing to release The Hill, his first original album in 14 years. The project holds special meaning because it was created with the help of his children, including collaborations with Braison and Noah Cyrus. He has also spoken positively about rebuilding relationships within his family, including reconnecting with daughter Miley Cyrus after years of widely reported tension.
Cyrus says the album represents much more than a collection of songs.
It’s a reflection of survival, healing, forgiveness, and second chances.
The title itself was inspired by a hill on his Tennessee property where he often visits the grave of his late mother and reflects on the journey that brought him to this point.
Adding to the sense of renewal, Cyrus has also found happiness in his relationship with Elizabeth Hurley, whom he credits with bringing joy and stability back into his life during a difficult period.
For fans who have followed his career from Achy Breaky Heart to Hannah Montana and beyond, the story is a reminder that even the biggest stars face struggles that aren’t always visible to the public.
And after everything he’s endured, Billy Ray Cyrus says he’s learning something he once thought he’d forgotten:
How to try again.
