Miley Cyrus has carved her place in music history with a collection of unforgettable songs that span genres and emotions. From her breakout into stardom as Hannah Montana to her daring solo career, Cyrus has consistently delivered hits that resonate with audiences worldwide. This article explores the essence of her musical journey through the lens of her Top 10 most iconic songs. From the emotionally charged anthem “Wrecking Ball,” which showcased her raw vulnerability, to the infectious pop energy of “Party in the USA,” Cyrus has captured the zeitgeist of multiple generations. Her versatility shines through in songs like “The Climb,” a powerful ballad that inspires perseverance, and the rebellious “We Can’t Stop,” which became a cultural phenomenon. Each track not only demonstrates her vocal prowess but also reflects her evolution as an artist unafraid to push boundaries. Whether exploring themes of love, empowerment, or self-discovery, Miley Cyrus’s music continues to resonate deeply with fans, making her a defining voice in contemporary pop. This compilation celebrates Cyrus’s impact on music and her enduring influence on the industry.
1. Party in the USA
“Party in the USA” stands out as one of Miley Cyrus’s most iconic songs, catapulting her into mainstream pop stardom. Released in 2009 as part of her “The Time of Our Lives” EP, the song captures youthful exuberance and a sense of freedom, resonating widely with audiences globally. Its infectious melody and upbeat lyrics celebrate the thrill of arriving in Los Angeles, embodying the excitement and energy of pursuing dreams in the entertainment capital.
The song’s success was marked by its chart-topping status in multiple countries, including the United States, where it peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100. Its catchy chorus and Cyrus’s vibrant vocals became synonymous with her evolving musical style post-Hannah Montana era, marking a pivotal moment in her career’s transition to a more mature pop sound.
“Party in the USA” remains a staple in Cyrus’s repertoire, frequently performed at concerts and cherished by fans for its nostalgic charm and feel-good vibes. It not only showcased her vocal prowess but also cemented her status as a pop culture icon, influencing a generation of listeners with its catchy hooks and carefree spirit.
2. The Climb
“The Climb” is a heartfelt ballad that showcases Miley Cyrus’s vocal range and emotional depth. Released in 2009 as the lead single from the soundtrack of her film “Hannah Montana: The Movie,” the song’s introspective lyrics resonate with themes of perseverance, determination, and the journey of self-discovery.
With its powerful message about overcoming obstacles and staying true to oneself, “The Climb” became an anthem for many facing challenges in their lives. It reached widespread acclaim, topping charts in several countries and earning critical praise for its sincerity and motivational impact.
Cyrus’s soulful delivery in “The Climb” highlighted her growth as an artist beyond her teen idol persona, showcasing her ability to convey emotion through music. The song’s popularity extended far beyond its initial release, remaining a fan favorite and often performed at concerts and special events.
As a defining song in her discography, “The Climb” not only solidified Cyrus’s versatility as a singer but also left a lasting impression on listeners who found solace and inspiration in its uplifting message. Its enduring popularity continues to resonate with audiences, making it one of Miley Cyrus’s most beloved and impactful songs to date.
3. We Can’t Stop
“We Can’t Stop” marked a bold departure for Miley Cyrus, shedding her previous wholesome image for a more rebellious and provocative persona. Released in 2013 as the lead single from her album “Bangerz,” the song was a statement of youthful defiance and celebration of freedom.
Known for its infectious beat and edgy lyrics, “We Can’t Stop” captured the essence of carefree partying and living in the moment. It became an instant hit, topping charts worldwide and garnering attention for its controversial music video, which showcased Cyrus’s newfound artistic direction and rebellious spirit.
The song’s production, featuring a mix of pop, R&B, and hip-hop influences, signaled a significant shift in Cyrus’s musical style, establishing her as a boundary-pushing artist unafraid to challenge norms. “We Can’t Stop” also sparked discussions about identity and self-expression, reflecting Cyrus’s personal journey in the public eye.
With its catchy chorus and bold lyrics, “We Can’t Stop” remains a defining moment in Miley Cyrus’s career, symbolizing her evolution as an artist and setting the stage for subsequent explorations into more mature themes and sounds. It continues to resonate with fans for its infectious energy and unapologetic attitude, cementing its place among her most impactful and memorable songs.
4. See You Again
“See You Again” was a breakout hit for Miley Cyrus, released in 2007 as the lead single from her debut studio album, “Meet Miley Cyrus.” The song marked a significant departure from her Hannah Montana persona, showcasing a more mature sound and attitude.
With its catchy pop-rock melody and relatable lyrics about teenage infatuation and longing, “See You Again” resonated strongly with young audiences. It became a commercial success, reaching high positions on music charts globally and earning Cyrus widespread recognition as a pop sensation.
The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious chorus highlighted Cyrus’s vibrant vocals and charisma, setting the stage for her subsequent musical endeavors. “See You Again” not only solidified her place in the pop music scene but also hinted at her ability to connect emotionally with listeners through her music.
As one of her early hits, “See You Again” remains a fan favorite and a nostalgic reminder of Cyrus’s early career. Its popularity contributed to her growing popularity and served as a precursor to the diverse musical styles she would explore in the years to come, making it a significant song in her discography.
5. Can’t Be Tamed
“Can’t Be Tamed” marked a pivotal moment in Miley Cyrus’s career, released in 2010 as the title track of her third studio album. The song symbolized her transition from her Disney Channel image to a more mature and assertive pop star persona.
With its electro-pop sound and bold lyrics, “Can’t Be Tamed” showcased Cyrus’s newfound confidence and independence. The song’s themes of breaking free from expectations and embracing individuality resonated with her evolving fan base, making it a rallying cry for self-expression.
The accompanying music video, featuring Cyrus in provocative outfits and expressing defiance against societal norms, sparked controversy and further solidified her image as a boundary-pushing artist. Despite criticism, “Can’t Be Tamed” achieved commercial success, charting internationally and showcasing Cyrus’s ability to evolve musically.
As an anthem for personal empowerment and liberation, “Can’t Be Tamed” underscored Cyrus’s transition into adulthood and set the stage for her subsequent artistic explorations. It remains a standout in her repertoire, reflecting her journey towards artistic authenticity and leaving a lasting impact on her career trajectory.
6. Wrecking Ball
“Wrecking Ball” stands as one of Miley Cyrus’s most emotionally charged and commercially successful songs, released in 2013 as the second single from her album “Bangerz.” The song’s powerful lyrics and haunting melody captivated audiences, marking a significant departure from her previous upbeat pop tracks.
Known for its raw vulnerability and intense vocals, “Wrecking Ball” became an instant hit, topping charts worldwide and earning critical acclaim for its poignant portrayal of heartbreak and loss. The song’s music video, featuring Cyrus swinging on a wrecking ball amidst emotional imagery, garnered immense attention and became iconic in pop culture.
Cyrus’s passionate delivery in “Wrecking Ball” showcased her versatility as an artist, proving her ability to evoke deep emotions through music. The song’s success solidified her reputation as a mature and introspective performer, garnering praise for its authenticity and emotional depth.
As one of her signature songs, “Wrecking Ball” remains a standout in Cyrus’s discography, resonating with listeners for its raw emotion and powerful message about love and heartache. Its impact extends beyond its initial release, continuing to be a defining moment in her career and a testament to her artistic evolution.
7. Slide Away
“Slide Away” is a poignant and introspective song by Miley Cyrus, released in 2019. The track, which reflects on themes of love, change, and personal growth, garnered significant attention for its emotional depth and raw vulnerability.
Following her highly publicized separation from actor Liam Hemsworth, “Slide Away” resonated with listeners for its heartfelt lyrics and melancholic melody. The song captures Cyrus’s reflections on the end of a relationship and the emotional aftermath, portraying a sense of longing and acceptance.
With its stripped-down production and soulful vocals, “Slide Away” marked a departure from Cyrus’s previous upbeat pop sound, showcasing her ability to convey complex emotions through music. The song’s release was accompanied by a music video that further emphasized its themes, solidifying its impact on both fans and critics.
“Slide Away” received praise for its maturity and sincerity, with many applauding Cyrus for her candid exploration of personal experiences. It remains a standout track in her repertoire, illustrating her growth as an artist and her willingness to share her emotional journey with listeners.
8. 7 things
“7 Things,” one of Miley Cyrus’s most iconic songs, was released in 2008 as the lead single from her second studio album, “Breakout.” The song is a pop-rock anthem that showcases Miley’s transition from her Disney Channel persona to a more mature artist. Written by Cyrus, Antonina Armato, and Tim James, “7 Things” captures the raw emotions of a young breakup, blending catchy melodies with relatable, heartfelt lyrics.
The song’s structure revolves around a list of grievances that Cyrus has with an ex-boyfriend, juxtaposed with a twist in the chorus where she admits the seventh thing she hates the most is that she still loves him. This duality of love and frustration resonated with many listeners, making it an instant hit.
The music video, directed by Brett Ratner, further amplified the song’s impact. It features Miley and other teenage girls expressing their angst and heartbreak, creating a powerful visual narrative that complemented the song’s themes. “7 Things” reached number nine on the Billboard Hot 100 and was certified platinum by the RIAA, solidifying its place as one of Miley Cyrus’s most beloved and enduring tracks. The song remains a staple in her discography, reflecting her ability to convey deep emotional truths through her music.
9. Mother’s Daughter
“Mother’s Daughter,” a standout track from Miley Cyrus’s 2019 EP “She Is Coming,” marks a bold and defiant chapter in her musical career. The song is a fierce declaration of independence and empowerment, showcasing Miley’s evolution as an artist unafraid to confront societal norms and expectations. Written by Cyrus, Alma Miettinen, and Andrew Wyatt, “Mother’s Daughter” blends elements of pop and rock with a gritty, rebellious edge.
The song’s lyrics are a powerful ode to self-assertion and female empowerment, with Cyrus singing about embracing one’s true self and rejecting any form of control or oppression. The chorus, with its catchy hook “Don’t fuck with my freedom,” captures the essence of the song’s unapologetic stance. This anthem of liberation resonated with fans and critics alike, praising its bold message and Miley’s commanding performance.
The music video, directed by Alexandre Moors, further amplifies the song’s themes with striking, provocative imagery. It features a diverse cast of individuals embodying various forms of strength and defiance, making powerful statements about body positivity, gender identity, and social justice. “Mother’s Daughter” received widespread acclaim for its daring visuals and message, cementing its place as one of Miley Cyrus’s most impactful songs.
10. Malibu
“Malibu,” released in 2017, marks a significant shift in Miley Cyrus’s musical style, presenting a more serene and introspective side of the artist. As the lead single from her sixth studio album, “Younger Now,” “Malibu” showcases Miley’s return to her roots, embracing a softer, folk-pop sound. Written by Cyrus and Oren Yoel, the song is a heartfelt love letter to her then-fiancé, Liam Hemsworth, and their life together in the coastal paradise of Malibu, California.
The lyrics of “Malibu” are deeply personal, reflecting Miley’s journey of self-discovery and renewal. The song’s gentle guitar riffs and breezy melody perfectly complement the themes of love, contentment, and a fresh start. Cyrus’s vocal performance is tender and sincere, capturing the song’s emotional depth and tranquility.
The accompanying music video, directed by Miley herself and Diane Martel, further emphasizes the song’s themes of natural beauty and simplicity. Filmed on location in Malibu, the video features Cyrus enjoying the beach, fields, and open air, symbolizing freedom and happiness.
“Malibu” was well-received by critics and fans, peaking at number ten on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning platinum certification by the RIAA. The song stands out in Miley’s discography as a beautiful and introspective piece, showcasing her versatility as an artist and her ability to craft heartfelt, memorable music.
Samuel Moore 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.
