Did you know that on this day 30 years ago Billy Ray Cyrus began filming the music video for his record-breaking hit single “Achy Breaky Heart '' at the Paramount Arts Center? 

That’s right! Born and raised in Greenup, Kentucky, the local sensation turned world-wide hit maker started his career playing local gigs around the tri-state before his songs played around the world. Not only did ‘Achy Breaky Heart’ help sell over 9 million copies of his ‘Some Gave All’ album, but it charted in over 10 countries and hit no.1 in the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. 

The music video begins with with Cyrus pulling up to the Paramount in a limo and panning out to his name lit up on the marquee sign we all know and love in Ashland. Even today, whether you know the performer or not, it’s hard not to feel the excitement that fills the streets of downtown when you see the marquee lighting up Winchester Ave. As one could imagine, the energy downtown that night was sky-high as filming began on January 20, 1992. As Cyrus steps out of the limo he is swarmed by beloved fans, which for the most part, happen to be tri-state locals supporting his success. While the crowd in the music video certainly reflects the world-wide popularity the song gained that year the single wasn’t released until March 23rd, 1992, a full two months after filming wrapped up. As if it wasn’t maddening enough for the catchy track to be stuck in your head all day, you probably knew the line dance to go along with it. In the video, directed by Marc Ball, you’ll find locals performing the famous line dance in the pit and lobby area of the Paramount Arts Center including Billy Ray’s wife, Tish Cyrus, also a native to the Ashland area. 

Did you get the chance to be an extra in the music video? In honor of the 30th anniversary, we’d love to share memories of locals who got the chance to participate in the success of this hit! Send your photos to us via Facebook messenger at facebook.com/visitashlandky