Few artists in pop music have experienced a career as dynamic and transformative as Miley Cyrus. From her early days as a Disney Channel star to becoming one of the most daring and versatile performers in the industry, Miley has consistently pushed boundaries, reinvented herself, and delivered unforgettable hits along the way. With a voice that effortlessly shifts from soulful ballads to edgy anthems, her music has resonated with fans across generations, cementing her status as a global icon.
Whether she’s making us cry with heart-wrenching ballads like “Wrecking Ball,” inspiring us with empowering anthems like “Flowers,” or bringing the party with feel-good classics like “Party in the U.S.A.,” Miley’s discography is a testament to her artistic evolution and fearless authenticity. Each song reflects a different chapter of her life, tackling themes of love, heartbreak, self-discovery, and independence.
In this article, we’ll dive into the top 10 most popular Miley Cyrus songs of all time, exploring the tracks that have defined her career and captured the hearts of millions. Get ready to relive the magic, the emotion, and the sheer energy of Miley’s greatest hits as we count down the songs that made her a pop sensation. Let’s go!
1. Wrecking Ball (2013)
Released on August 25, 2013, as the second single from Miley’s Bangerz album, “Wrecking Ball” became a cultural phenomenon. The song is an emotional ballad that explores the devastation of heartbreak, driven by stirring lyrics and Miley’s powerful vocal delivery. Paired with its unforgettable music video—featuring a vulnerable Miley swinging on a wrecking ball—it shocked audiences while cementing her as a daring artist unafraid to evolve. Its raw intensity resonated with listeners, making it one of her most iconic tracks and earning her a spot atop Billboard’s Hot 100.
2. Party in the U.S.A. (2009)
A modern pop classic, “Party in the U.S.A.” debuted on August 11, 2009, and quickly became a feel-good anthem for a generation. Co-written by Jessie J and featured on Miley’s The Time of Our Lives EP, the song captures the excitement of chasing dreams in a new city while staying true to your roots. Its infectious chorus and upbeat production made it a go-to song for celebrations, and it remains a staple on playlists to this day. The track also marked Miley’s seamless transition from Disney star to mainstream pop artist.
3. Flowers (2023)
Released on January 12, 2023, “Flowers” was an instant global hit that showcased Miley’s growth as a songwriter. The lead single from Endless Summer Vacation, the empowering track is a celebration of self-love and independence. With soulful vocals and a groovy, mid-tempo beat, Miley reflects on moving on from heartbreak and learning to embrace herself. Its relatable message and confident tone struck a chord with millions, breaking streaming records and dominating the charts worldwide.
4. The Climb (2009)
Released on March 5, 2009, as part of the Hannah Montana: The Movie soundtrack, “The Climb” is an inspirational ballad that continues to resonate with fans of all ages. The song’s poignant lyrics about perseverance and overcoming challenges struck an emotional chord, making it a standout in Miley’s early career. Her heartfelt delivery paired with the soaring melody makes it a timeless anthem for anyone chasing their dreams. It became a defining moment for Miley as a serious artist beyond her Disney persona.
5. Midnight Sky (2020)
“Midnight Sky,” released on August 14, 2020, is a glittering disco-pop single that highlights Miley’s artistic reinvention. The first single from her Plastic Hearts album, the track channels a sense of freedom and self-discovery. With a retro vibe reminiscent of the 1980s, Miley’s husky vocals shine as she sings about breaking free from toxic relationships and embracing her individuality. The song’s empowering lyrics and infectious groove captured fans’ hearts, further establishing Miley as a versatile, genre-defying artist.
6. We Can’t Stop (2013)
On June 3, 2013, Miley shocked the world with the release of “We Can’t Stop,” the lead single from her Bangerz album. This carefree and rebellious anthem marked a turning point in her career, as Miley shed her Disney image for good. The song celebrates living life unapologetically, with its laid-back beat and edgy lyrics perfectly capturing the party spirit of the early 2010s. Its success on the charts and provocative music video solidified Miley as a bold and fearless artist.
7. Malibu (2017)
Released on May 11, 2017, “Malibu” is a heartfelt ballad that reflected a more grounded and introspective side of Miley. The lead single from her Younger Now album, the song was inspired by her rekindled romance with Liam Hemsworth. With its breezy, acoustic-driven production and sincere lyrics, Miley conveyed a sense of peace and contentment. “Malibu” marked a departure from her edgier phase, showcasing her versatility and ability to connect emotionally with her audience.
8. See You Again (2007)
“See You Again,” released on December 29, 2007, was Miley’s first solo hit and a defining moment in her early music career. Featured on her debut album, Meet Miley Cyrus, the song blended pop and dance influences with an infectious energy that introduced Miley to a broader audience beyond her Disney fanbase. Its catchy hook and youthful exuberance made it an instant hit, proving Miley’s potential as a pop star in her own right.
9. Adore You (2013)
“Adore You,” released on December 17, 2013, as the opening track of Bangerz, is a tender ballad that showcases Miley’s vulnerability. With its stripped-down production and heartfelt lyrics, the song explores themes of longing and devotion. The accompanying music video, which featured Miley in an intimate setting, further highlighted the raw emotion of the track. While softer than her other Bangerz singles, “Adore You” proved Miley’s ability to captivate with simplicity and sincerity.
10. 7 Things (2008)
Released on June 17, 2008, “7 Things” was the lead single from Miley’s sophomore album, Breakout. This pop-rock anthem, rumored to be about her relationship with Nick Jonas, captured the turbulence of teenage heartbreak. With its mix of angst and vulnerability, Miley delivered an emotional performance that connected deeply with her fans. The song’s catchy chorus and relatable lyrics made it a standout hit, cementing Miley’s place as a rising star in the pop world.