Washington
18 May 2009
Billy Ray Cyrus fans have a lot to be excited about. In addition to the release of his new album, he's starring in a top box office film. Both projects deal with Billy Ray's family home in Tennessee.
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"This album is everything I am at this second," he says. "It's everything I've been through and every step along the way to this point. Ironically, sometimes looking back, in my case, 'Back To Tennessee,' is the best way to move forward."
Billy Ray moved his family from Tennessee to Los Angeles in 2005 when daughter, Miley Cyrus, was cast to play the lead role in the Disney Channel television series, Hannah Montana. Billy Ray plays the father of Miley's character in the show. They also both star in the new film version of Hannah Montana, which tells the story of a spoiled teenager who's taken to Tennessee to escape the glitz and glamour of Hollywood.
Last year, Miley and Billy Ray had a Top 5 Country hit with their duet, "Ready, Set, Don't Go." Miley joins her father again on this ballad that was added as a bonus track on Back To Tennessee.
"Butterfly Fly Away" is also included on the Hannah Montana: The Movie soundtrack. That song and five other tracks from the album recently appeared simultaneously on Billboard's Hot 100 chart.
Billy Ray says the title track from Back To Tennessee depicts how he felt after living in Los Angeles for several years.
"You'll hear a guy who's immersed in music, and my love and desire and need to go back home," he says.