Miley Cyrus is an American singer, songwriter, and actress who rose to fame for her role as Miley Stewart/Hannah Montana on the Disney Channel television series “Hannah Montana,” which aired from 2006 to 2011. Cyrus’ dual role as a regular teenager and a pop star on the show catapulted her to international stardom at a young age.
Outside of her acting career, Cyrus has achieved success as a singer, with several hit albums and singles. Her musical style has evolved over the years, starting with a pop-country sound during her “Hannah Montana” days and later transitioning to a more mature pop and rock sound.
Cyrus is known for her distinctive voice, energetic stage presence, and controversial public image. She has been praised for her vocal abilities and criticized for her provocative performances and behavior. Despite this, Cyrus has remained a prominent figure in the music industry, continually reinventing herself and exploring new musical genres and styles.
1. Wrecking Ball
“Wrecking Ball” is a song by Miley Cyrus, released in 2013 as the second single from her fourth studio album, “Bangerz.” The song became a major commercial success and is considered one of Cyrus’ signature songs.
“Wrecking Ball” is a power ballad that features emotional vocals from Cyrus. The lyrics describe a tumultuous relationship and the pain of letting go. The music video for the song attracted significant attention due to its provocative imagery, including Cyrus swinging on a wrecking ball naked.
Despite the controversy surrounding the music video, “Wrecking Ball” received critical acclaim for Cyrus’ vocal performance and the song’s powerful lyrics. It topped the charts in several countries and became one of the best-selling singles of 2013. The song’s success helped Cyrus transition from her earlier teen pop image to a more mature and edgier persona.
2. Slide Away
“Slide Away” is a song by Miley Cyrus, released in 2019 as a standalone single. The song is often interpreted as reflecting Cyrus’ personal experiences, particularly in the aftermath of her separation from actor Liam Hemsworth.
“Slide Away” features melancholic lyrics that speak to the end of a relationship and the desire to move on from the past. The song’s introspective tone and dreamy instrumentation contribute to its emotional depth, with Cyrus’ vocals conveying a sense of vulnerability and reflection.
The release of “Slide Away” prompted speculation about its connection to Cyrus’ personal life, given the timing of her separation from Hemsworth. The song received positive reviews from critics for its heartfelt lyrics and Cyrus’ soulful delivery, further establishing her as a versatile and emotive artist.
3. Plastic Hearts
“Plastic Hearts” is the seventh studio album by Miley Cyrus, released in 2020. The album marks a departure from Cyrus’ previous pop sound, incorporating elements of rock, punk, and glam rock.
“Plastic Hearts” received critical acclaim for its raw and honest lyrics, as well as Cyrus’ powerful vocals. The album’s lead single, “Midnight Sky,” became a commercial success and was praised for its retro sound and empowering message.
The album features collaborations with artists like Dua Lipa and Billy Idol, further showcasing Cyrus’ versatility as an artist. “Plastic Hearts” has been described as Cyrus’ most mature and cohesive work to date, solidifying her status as a respected musician in the rock genre.
4. The Climb
“The Climb” is a song performed by Miley Cyrus, featured in the 2009 film “Hannah Montana: The Movie.” Written by Jessi Alexander and Jon Mabe, the song serves as a powerful anthem about perseverance, determination, and overcoming obstacles.
“The Climb” became one of Cyrus’ signature songs and received widespread acclaim for its inspirational message and emotional resonance. The lyrics encourage listeners to keep pushing forward and to embrace the journey, even when faced with challenges or setbacks. The song’s uplifting melody and Cyrus’ heartfelt vocals struck a chord with audiences, making it a favorite for motivational playlists and graduation ceremonies.
“The Climb” topped charts internationally and received several award nominations, including a Grammy nomination for Best Song Written for a Motion Picture. It remains one of Cyrus’ most beloved and enduring songs, cherished for its universal message of resilience and hope.
5. Party In The USA
“Party in the U.S.A.” is a song by Miley Cyrus, released in 2009. The song was a major commercial success, topping the charts in several countries and becoming one of Cyrus’ most popular songs.
“Party in the U.S.A.” is an upbeat pop song with country influences. The lyrics describe Cyrus’ experiences as a young girl from Tennessee arriving in Los Angeles and feeling out of place until she hears a Jay-Z song on the radio, which makes her feel at home.
The song’s catchy chorus and infectious melody made it a favorite among fans and a staple at parties and celebrations. “Party in the U.S.A.” helped Cyrus transition from her “Hannah Montana” image to a more mainstream pop star, showcasing her versatility as an artist.
6. See You Again
“See You Again” is a song by Miley Cyrus, released in 2007 as the lead single from her debut studio album, “Meet Miley Cyrus.” The song was a commercial success, reaching the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and becoming one of Cyrus’ signature songs.
“See You Again” is an upbeat pop rock song with catchy hooks and a memorable chorus. The lyrics describe a romantic encounter at a club and the excitement of seeing someone again in the future. The song’s youthful energy and relatable lyrics resonated with listeners, particularly Cyrus’ younger fan base.
“See You Again” helped establish Cyrus as a solo artist outside of her “Hannah Montana” persona and paved the way for her successful music career. The song remains a fan favorite and is often included in Cyrus’ live performances.
7. Nothing Breaks Like a Heart
“Nothing Breaks Like a Heart” is a song by Mark Ronson featuring Miley Cyrus, released in 2018 as a lead single from Ronson’s album “Late Night Feelings.” The song blends elements of pop, country, and disco, and its lyrics explore themes of heartbreak, resilience, and the complexities of love and life.
“Nothing Breaks Like a Heart” received positive reviews from critics, who praised its catchy melody, slick production, and Cyrus’ emotive vocals. The song’s music video, directed by Miley Cyrus and featuring imagery addressing social and political issues, garnered attention for its provocative visual storytelling.
The song achieved commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries and earning certifications for its sales and streams. “Nothing Breaks Like a Heart” remains a standout collaboration between Mark Ronson and Miley Cyrus, showcasing both artists’ versatility and musical chemistry.
8. We Can’t Stop
“We Can’t Stop” is a song by Miley Cyrus, released in 2013 as the lead single from her fourth studio album, “Bangerz.” The song marked a departure from Cyrus’ previous pop sound, incorporating elements of hip hop and R&B.
“We Can’t Stop” features a mid-tempo beat and laid-back vocals from Cyrus. The lyrics describe a carefree attitude towards partying and living in the moment. The song’s chorus, with its catchy hook “We can’t stop, and we won’t stop,” became a popular anthem for embracing individuality and living life on one’s own terms.
“We Can’t Stop” received mixed reviews from critics but was a commercial success, reaching the top ten on the charts in several countries. The song’s music video, which features Cyrus engaging in provocative and controversial behavior, generated significant buzz and further solidified Cyrus’ image as a boundary-pushing artist.
9. Malibu
“Malibu” is a song by Miley Cyrus, released in 2017 as the lead single from her sixth studio album, “Younger Now.” The song marked a departure from Cyrus’ previous sound, featuring a more stripped-down and acoustic style.
“Malibu” is a breezy, mid-tempo pop song with a laid-back vibe. The lyrics are a love letter to Cyrus’ then-fiancé, actor Liam Hemsworth, and reflect a more mature and introspective side of Cyrus. The song’s chorus, with its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics, became a fan favorite and received critical acclaim.
“Malibu” was a commercial success, reaching the top ten on the charts in several countries. The song’s music video, which features Cyrus frolicking on the beach and enjoying the natural beauty of Malibu, California, further reinforced the song’s theme of love and renewal.
10. Mother’s Daughter
“Mother’s Daughter” is a song by Miley Cyrus, released in 2019 as the second single from her seventh studio album, “She Is Coming.” The song is an empowering anthem that celebrates individuality and self-expression.
“Mother’s Daughter” features a gritty, electro-pop sound with a driving beat. The lyrics convey a message of self-empowerment and confidence, with Cyrus singing about breaking free from societal norms and embracing one’s true identity. The song’s chorus, with its defiant refrain “Don’t fuck with my freedom,” became a rallying cry for fans and a statement of Cyrus’ unapologetic attitude.
“Mother’s Daughter” received positive reviews from critics, who praised its bold sound and empowering message. The song’s music video, which features a diverse cast of women and celebrates body positivity and inclusivity, further reinforced its themes of self-acceptance and empowerment.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
