Billy Ray Cyrus is set to make a significant return to the music scene with the release of his new album, titled ‘The Hill’, which will launch on June 16. This marks the first album he has released in fourteen years, and the anticipation surrounding its unveiling is palpable.
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In an exclusive cover story for PEOPLE, his daughter Miley Cyrus reflects on the deep-rooted connection that music provides within their family. The chart-topping singer, now 33, describes music as a vital means of communication among family members. “Whether it’s sending a song we wrote in a text or writing a poem that expresses our feelings authentically, it’s always our chosen way to share what we feel,” Miley expressed.
Family involvement is a hallmark of ‘The Hill’, as both Miley’s brother, Braison, and sister, Noah, played key roles in its creation. Braison not only produced the album but also collaborated on its songwriting. He notes that their father often expresses himself through music, a skill that the siblings have collectively inherited. “I think he did ‘try again’ by making this record with me,” Braison remarked, highlighting the personal growth reflected in their joint effort.
Billy Ray Cyrus has faced numerous challenges in recent years, including health issues and complicated relationships. In 2024, he experienced hospitalisation coupled with vocal problems, which posed significant hurdles. However, he views life as a continuous process of adaptation. “My family has always understood that life is a series of adjustments. We’ve experienced a lot together, but what happened before is now behind us,” he explained, demonstrating a hopeful outlook on their familial bonds.
Despite joking about his qualifications as a parent, Cyrus conveys a sense of pride in the individuals his children have become. He acknowledges Miley’s sentiments about music as a vehicle for emotional expression, sensing a deep authenticity in their shared experiences. His daughter Noah, who duets with him on the album’s track “On Our Way Along”, also seeks connection through time spent together on their family farm. “It’s a sacred place that draws us all back home,” she shared, emphasising the importance of their upbringing in their creative lives.
The collaborative nature of ‘The Hill’ allows for a nostalgic return to the family’s roots. The album’s production process was marked by a spirit of exploration. Braison expressed that their goal was not to create something overwhelmingly commercial or typical of mainstream country music, but rather to focus on storytelling. This approach enabled them to experiment more freely with the album’s themes and style.
Miley lauded the artistic direction of the album, praising her father’s vocal evolution. “I love seeing my dad lean into his Johnny Cash voice. He has always looked up to Cash, and it brings me joy to see Braison write songs that align with that legacy,” she noted, reflecting the family’s shared appreciation for musical heritage.
Billy Ray Cyrus’s upcoming album and his involvement in various family projects signal a rejuvenation of familial ties through creativity. The album is not just an artistic endeavour; it is a celebration of their bond as a family. “All these years later, it’s about going back to our roots,” he stated, marking this moment as a significant milestone in their family journey.
For those eager to dive into more about Billy Ray Cyrus and the stories behind this new album, the latest issue of PEOPLE is now available at newsstands, offering a deeper insight into the life and music of this iconic artist.