Billy Ray Cyrus - Billy Ray Cyrus Sang Through Bombing In Afghanistan

The 49-year-old says the idea for his latest record started with one particular trip to the Far East, explaining, "It was during a performance in Afghanistan on 'Some Gave All' when some bombs went off in the background, a young soldier stood up and said, 'Keep going Mr. Cyrus. We're used to it". Billy Ray claimed "at that moment" he knew he would record a tribute record, saying. ".I was going to come back and record 'Some Gave All' and start an entire album on a concept that was based solely on taking my hat off and saluting our troops". The release of 'I'm American' caps a tumultuous year for Cyrus, which has included a wave of criticism for his parenting of daughter Miley Cyrus. Despite the tabloid drama, the 49-year-old believes everyone can relate to his struggles, saying, "I've been through a lot. That being said, I think people around the world can look at my life and say, 'That guy is kind of just like us - peaks and valleys, ups and downs. That's what I've lived".

Billy Ray Cyrus' new album features a re-recording of his hit song 'Some Gave All', the title track to his multi-platinum debut album. The new version features vocals from country singers Darryl Worley, Craig Morgan and JAMEY JOHNSON