Billy Ray Cyrus shares personal letter from 'Achy Breaky Heart' fan President George H.W. Bush

On the same day that dignitaries honored President George H.W. Bush with a funeral at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., Billy Ray Cyrus remembered the politician’s kind words to him too.

The country star shared a letter that Bush wrote to him on Oct. 1, 1992, right about the time the mania over his debut single, “Achy Breaky Heart,” was at its peak. The song was a hit on country radio and pop stations alike. Fans everywhere were even learning the line dance associated with the tune. They snapped up T-shirts emblazoned with the phrase.

Even Bush, who was one month away from losing his bid for a second term in office, was a fan. The former Texan obviously kept up with country music. In his letter to Cyrus, Bush thanked the singer for giving him an autographed photo during a visit to Opryland in Nashville.

He also congratulated the music newcomer on winning an award for the song from the Country Music Association — the Single of the Year — the previous night.

Bush, who was 68 at the time, added, “I have a tape of “Achy Breaky Heart” and agree with the judges — it’s a hit!”

In addition to Bush’s kindness, the “Some Gave All” singer surely appreciated Bush’s record of military service.

The 41st president died Friday at his home in Houston, following a years-long struggle with a form of Parkinson’s disease. He was 94.

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