Billy Ray Cyrus says he was 'surprised' by Beyonce's CMA Awards snub for 'Cowboy Carter'

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE: Billy Ray Cyrus has voiced his astonishment and dismay at Beyonce's omission from the Country Music Association (CMA) Awards, especially with her album 'Cowboy Carter', which he believed deserved acknowledgment at the esteemed ceremony.

Following his congratulations to this year's nominees, the 'Achy Breaky Heart' singer expressed his reaction to the pop star's omission.

Billy Ray Cyrus defends Beyonce after CMA snub

On Wednesday, November 20, Billy Ray Cyrus captioned an Instagram post, “I was surprised to see @beyonce wasn’t nominated??? Her album was brilliant… her single ruled. But she knows that.”

Despite his surprise, he continued to explain that he believes Beyonce does not require the nomination.

“She doesn’t need a trophy from the CMA… or permission …. or approval from any of their judges,” Cyrus penned.

Cyrus ended his post with a quote from the late boxer Muhammad Ali. “When ya knock em out…. Ya don’t need no judge,” he wrote.

In a previous statement, Cyrus expressed his pride in country music's evolving inclusivity, welcoming all people and styles into the genre.

He wrote, “Proud to see country music opening their doors and format to be inclusive to all people, all styles.”

At 43, Beyonce ventured into new territory with the release of her country album 'Cowboy Carter' in March, marking her first departure from her traditional pop music style.

Numerous celebrities have responded to the Country Music Association's exclusion of the 'Break My Soul' singer from their nominee list, announced on September 9.

Luke Bryan comments on Beyonce's CMA snub

Country artist Luke Bryan commented on the omission during his guest appearance on SiriusXM's 'Andy Cohen Live' on October 1.

“Everybody loved that Beyonce made a country album. Nobody’s mad about it. But where things get a little tricky. If you’re gonna make country albums, come into our world and be country with us a little bit,” the singer said.

He continued, “Beyonce can do exactly what she wants to. She’s probably the biggest star in music.”

“But come to an award show and high-five us, and have fun and get in the family, too. And I’m not saying she didn’t do that. But country music’s a lot about family,” he added.

Bryan, also said, “I’m all for everybody coming in and making country albums and all that. But just by declaring that, just because she made one — just ’cause I make one, I don’t get any nominations.”

Fans rally behind Beyonce after Billy Ray Cyrus' support

As soon as the news about Billy Ray Cyrus supporting Beyonce hit the internet, users began asserting that she deserves only the best.

A user said, "Her album is incredible, I don't know why they did this to her, she deserves nothing but the best."

Another added, "Beyonce’s album and singles were ICONIC. She deserves all the recognition, not just awards."

A third commentator remarked, "Billy Ray’s right… Beyonce doesn’t need CMA validation to prove her brilliance. Her work speaks for itself, and trophies can’t measure the impact she’s had on music and culture."

"Fantastic BILLY RAY CYRUS says the correct. BEYONCE was literally snubbed. lol awards are often rigged & sold out #CMAawards," a fan slammed the CMA awards.

Another added, "She deserves so many accolades for Cowboy Carter. It is a cohesive work of art. I’m just praying and hoping that she gets acknowledged for her work at the Grammys."

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.