A ‘90s Country Hitmaker’s Tease of This Judy Garland Classic has Fans Divided: ‘You’re Breaking My Achy Breaky Heart’ originally appeared on Parade.
Billy Ray Cyrus has taken to social media to announce that he will release a new rendition of the Judy Garland classic, “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” known for being featured in the 1939 American film The Wizard of Oz.
The country star, who is currently in a relationship with actress Elizabeth Hurley, has teamed up with guitarist Micki Free, who signed on as a flagship artist to Cyrus and Scotty Adkins’ Roam Man Management — and producer Buck 22 —who has previously collaborated with Cyrus on “Achy Breaky 2” — for the release, which is due out on Friday (June 27). The trio have joined forces on the legendary tune to benefit the National Museum of African American Music in Nashville, Tenn.
Sharing a snippet on TikTok of his version of the song, written by Yip Harburg and Harold Arlen, Cyrus opened up about why he chose to release his take.
“‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’ has always represented more than just a melody to me,” he wrote alongside a video, which finds him roaming around a wooded area in a pair of blue jeans and a bright-colored buttoned-down shirt. “It’s a symbol of equal opportunity for all.”
Playing in the background of the clip, which also features Cyrus playing fetch with a black lab, is a small portion of the unreleased track. Cyrus’ gravel and whispering vocals can be heard over electric guitar licks as he delivers a lullaby-esque style take on the chorus of the song.
“I’m honored to be a part of this special version with Micki Free and Buck 22 to benefit @NMAAM The National Museum of African American Music…a place where history, pain, power, and beauty of music lives on,” Cyrus wrote before thanking those closest to his heart. “Thank you also to Elizabeth Hurley, D Man, @MileyCyrus, @NoahCyrus for being the treasure at the end of my rainbow. Music still truly changes everything.”
Although fans haven’t heard Cyrus’ full recording of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” they didn’t hesitate to share their responses over the snippet, with the majority of folks attacking the song with brutal comments.
“Mind you this was optional,” one person commented below the clip, with another person adding, “Billy, you’re breaking my achy breaky heart, brother.”
“Sounds painful,” another follower wrote.
Meanwhile, other folks shared their excitement for the upcoming release, with one person pleading, “Come perform this at our park.”
“I’m not gonna lie. This is fire!” Another person added.
It is unclear whether or not Cyrus’ version of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” featuring Free and Buck 22 will be a part of a larger project. Or perhaps Cyrus has been knee-deep, enjoying the building of the cover song as well as his relationship with Hurley.
Look for “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” available Friday (June 27).
Related: ‘Proud Dad’ Billy Ray Cyrus Congratulates Daughter on Performance With Country Legend
A ‘90s Country Hitmaker’s Tease of This Judy Garland Classic has Fans Divided: ‘You’re Breaking My Achy Breaky Heart’ first appeared on Parade on Jun 27, 2025
This story was originally reported by Parade on Jun 27, 2025, where it first appeared.