Over The Rainbow Charity Single: Press Release
June 27, 2025
BILLY RAY CYRUS, MICKI FREE, AND BUCK 22 RELEASE “OVER THE RAINBOW” CHARITY SINGLE TO BENEFIT NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSIC
Entertainment icon teams with Micki Free and Buck 22 for Black Music Month fundraising initiative; music video filmed at NMAAM
NASHVILLE, TN (June 27, 2025) — Global superstar Billy Ray Cyrus joins Micki Free and Buck 22 on an all-new recording of “Over the Rainbow,” a charity single benefiting the National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM), with 100% of proceeds supporting the museum’s mission to preserve and celebrate African American musical heritage
The reimagined cover of the classic song features Cyrus alongside GRAMMY® winning guitarist Micki Free and multi-platinum producer Damon Elliott (Buck 22). The accompanying music video was filmed entirely at NMAAM’s Broadway location, showcasing the museum’s state-of-the-art facilities and exhibitions.
The collaboration emerged from Cyrus’s recent visit to NMAAM during filming for the upcoming Netflix documentary “My Black Country.” Inspired by the museum’s mission and exhibits, Cyrus’s team approached NMAAM about creating a meaningful partnership for Black Music Month.
“‘Over the Rainbow’ has always represented more than just a melody to me… it’s a symbol of equal opportunity for all. I’m honored to be a part of this special version with Micki Free and Buck 22 to benefit the National Museum of African American Music… a place where the history, pain, power, and beauty of music lives on. Thank you Billion Streams Records. Thank you also to Elizabeth Hurley, D Man, Miley, Noah and Braison for being the treasure at the end of my rainbow. Music still truly changes everything. 🎶🌈🎸” — Billy Ray Cyrus
“Billy Ray’s generosity and artistic vision exemplify the spirit of collaboration that has always defined Nashville’s music community. This project beautifully demonstrates how established artists can use their platform to support cultural preservation and education.” — Bill Jeffries, Executive Director, NMAAM
The single was recorded and produced entirely through Cyrus’s Roam Man Records, with all artists donating their time and performances. Sony Music Publishing granted a special gratis sync license for the project, recognizing its charitable nature and cultural significance.
The release coincides with NMAAM’s “We Are Music City” Black Music Month celebration, featuring the museum’s groundbreaking “Jubilation!” exhibition celebrating the Fisk Jubilee Singers and various programming throughout June.
“Over the Rainbow” is available on all major streaming platforms. The music video can be viewed on NMAAM’s social media channels and YouTube.
About the National Museum of African American Music The National Museum of African American Music is the only museum dedicated to preserving and celebrating the many music genres created, influenced, and inspired by African Americans. Located at 510 Broadway in Nashville, the museum’s innovative and interactive exhibits share the story of the American soundtrack by integrating history and interactive technology to bring musical heroes of the past into the present. For more information, visit www.nmaam.org.
Media Contact:
Dexter D. Evans
Sr. Advisor, Strategic Advancement
National Museum of African American Music
devans@nmaam.org
(615) 709-0595
