No more tailgatting?

2001 Blazer. when I push the release button for the tailgate I can hear the normal sound but nothing opens. This is the case with the button on the dash, on the tailgate itself, and on the remote. How can I get the tailgate open so I can work on this problem?

The tailgate operating mechanism is obviously full of barbeque sauce.

It sounds like the operating cable or rod is detached from the latching mechanism. It may be possible to access by removing the inner (upholstered) panel, thereby exposing the mechanism. (Hint: sound system installers usually have the proper tools for this.)

Then, after you remove the panel and find the latch rod lying lose, you go to the parts store and buy a little pack of “door latch rod retainer clips”, little plastic parts that secure the rod(s) to the side latches.