From teen sensation to fearless pop icon, Miley Cyrus has carved one of the most unforgettable paths in modern music. With a voice that shifts seamlessly from raspy rock to polished pop, and a persona that constantly reinvents itself, Miley has never been afraid to push boundaries or speak her truth. Whether she’s swinging from a wrecking ball, belting out an emotional ballad, or dancing through heartbreak with disco glitter, each era of her music tells a story of evolution, rebellion, and raw authenticity. Over the years, she’s delivered anthems that defined generations, inspired self-love, and stirred global conversation.
In this countdown, we’re diving into the top 10 most popular Miley Cyrus songs of all time—tracks that lit up the charts, broke streaming records, and stayed in our heads (and hearts) long after the final note. From the early days of Hannah Montana to her powerful 2020s renaissance, these songs are more than just hits—they’re cultural moments. So turn up the volume, grab your glitter, and get ready to relive the evolution of Miley through her most iconic, emotional, and electrifying songs. Let’s celebrate the music that made Miley Cyrus a legend in her own right.
1. “Party in the U.S.A.” (2009)
“Party in the U.S.A.” dropped in August 2009 and quickly became an anthem of youthful freedom and pop joy. Originally written by Jessie J, Claude Kelly, and Dr. Luke, the song was intended for Jessie herself before finding its perfect voice in Miley Cyrus. With a magnetic blend of wide-eyed wonder and confident swagger, Miley delivered the track with irresistible charm. The lyrics follow her arrival in Los Angeles, filled with nervous energy and culture shock, only to find comfort in the familiar beats of her favorite songs. That iconic line—“So I put my hands up, they’re playing my song…”—became a cultural touchstone, especially for a generation caught between growing up and holding onto carefree moments. Despite the song’s sugary pop sound, it marked a pivotal moment in Miley’s transition from Disney darling to emerging pop star. “Party in the U.S.A.” peaked at #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and has since gone multi-platinum, becoming a go-to soundtrack for summer parties, patriotic holidays, and nostalgic throwbacks. Its continued popularity lies in its feel-good spirit and the way it captures the thrill of a fresh start wrapped in a catchy chorus.
2. “Flowers” (2023)
When Miley Cyrus released “Flowers” in January 2023, she delivered more than a chart-topping hit—she delivered a cultural moment. Instantly resonating with audiences worldwide, the song debuted at #1 in numerous countries and became Miley’s longest-running #1 single on the Billboard Hot 100. With disco-tinged production and empowering lyrics, “Flowers” is a declaration of self-love and independence after heartbreak. Miley’s raspy vocals carry a mix of strength and vulnerability as she proclaims, “I can buy myself flowers…”—a powerful reminder that healing doesn’t always require anyone else. The song struck a deep emotional chord, especially given its rumored connections to her past marriage, fueling countless think pieces and social media discussions. On platforms like TikTok, “Flowers” quickly went viral, cementing its place as a modern breakup anthem. What makes it truly special is how it celebrates growth and emotional freedom without bitterness. It’s not about wallowing—it’s about rising. With “Flowers,” Miley proved that she’s not only evolved artistically but has embraced her identity with clarity and grace. It’s a sparkling pop anthem that reminds us all of the power of reclaiming ourselves, set to a groove that makes it impossible not to dance.
3. “Wrecking Ball” (2013)
“Wrecking Ball” was a seismic moment in Miley Cyrus’ career, both musically and culturally. Released in August 2013, the song anchored her Bangerz era—a bold chapter where she shed her former image and embraced a more provocative, raw persona. Co-written by Mozella and produced by Dr. Luke and Cirkut, “Wrecking Ball” is a power ballad that dives deep into the pain of a relationship’s collapse. Miley’s vocal performance is filled with aching vulnerability, particularly in lines like “I never meant to start a war.” It’s a showcase of emotional honesty that caught many by surprise. While the infamous music video, featuring a nude Miley swinging on a literal wrecking ball, stole headlines and sparked endless debate, the song’s heart-wrenching message is what left a lasting impression. “Wrecking Ball” hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains one of the most defining songs of the 2010s. It proved that beneath the controversy was a fearless artist capable of delivering gut-punching emotional truths. With its soaring chorus and stripped-down verses, the song became a modern breakup anthem—and a bold statement of reinvention that redefined Miley’s career.
4. “The Climb” (2009)
Released in March 2009 as part of the Hannah Montana: The Movie soundtrack, “The Climb” remains one of Miley Cyrus’ most emotionally resonant and inspirational songs. Written by Jessi Alexander and Jon Mabe, the track moves beyond its film origins to deliver a universal message about perseverance and inner strength. With lyrics like “There’s always gonna be another mountain,” it speaks to the ongoing journey of self-growth and overcoming challenges. Miley’s vocal performance is sincere and powerful, conveying vulnerability and hope in equal measure. Unlike typical movie soundtrack songs that fade with the credits, “The Climb” became an enduring anthem—beloved at graduations, school assemblies, and any moment calling for courage. It topped the Hot Adult Contemporary chart and became a staple of Miley’s early career, marking a key moment in her evolution from child star to serious artist. The song’s success lies in its simplicity and heart. It doesn’t promise easy victories, but it encourages listeners to keep moving forward, even when the path is steep. “The Climb” continues to inspire because it reminds us that the journey itself is where growth happens—and that’s a message that never gets old.
5. “Midnight Sky” (2020)
“Midnight Sky,” released in August 2020, showcases Miley Cyrus at her most empowered and sonically adventurous. With this single, she leaned hard into her rock and glam influences, channeling icons like Stevie Nicks and Joan Jett while carving out a sound uniquely her own. The track is driven by pulsing synths, bold guitar licks, and a defiant attitude, with Miley singing, “I was born to run, I don’t belong to anyone.” The lyrics are a proclamation of self-reliance and liberation following emotional upheaval. It’s a breakup song, yes, but it’s one wrapped in glitter, strength, and unapologetic confidence. Her raspy, seasoned vocals glide over the sleek production, creating a vibe that feels both retro and current. “Midnight Sky” was critically acclaimed and spawned a remix mashup with Stevie Nicks’ “Edge of Seventeen,” further blurring the lines between homage and reinvention. It was a standout track from her Plastic Hearts album, a project that saw Miley fully embrace her rock persona. The song didn’t just show artistic growth—it solidified her place as a genre-blending powerhouse who knows exactly who she is and isn’t afraid to say it.
6. “We Can’t Stop” (2013)
“We Can’t Stop,” released in June 2013, was the thunderous start to Miley Cyrus’ daring Bangerz era. Ditching the innocent pop of her earlier years, Miley emerged with a new attitude—bold, rebellious, and unapologetically herself. The song is a laid-back but infectious party anthem that champions personal freedom with the now-iconic line, “It’s our party, we can do what we want.” Produced by Mike Will Made It, the track fuses R&B with electro-pop elements, giving it a fresh, edgy feel that stood out from the mainstream pop of the time. Miley’s vocals are sultry and almost hypnotic, delivering each line with a casual defiance that matches the song’s theme of nonconformity. The music video, filled with surreal, provocative imagery, pushed the boundaries of her public image and sparked endless conversation. Though divisive, “We Can’t Stop” soared to #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and went multi-platinum. It marked a pivotal shift in her career, where she stopped playing it safe and began shaping her identity on her own terms. Love it or not, the song made a clear statement: Miley Cyrus had arrived—and she wasn’t following anyone else’s rules.
7. “Malibu” (2017)
Released in May 2017, “Malibu” offered a striking change of pace for Miley Cyrus, trading in the flash and chaos of her Bangerz era for something quieter, calmer, and more reflective. The song was written about her rekindled relationship with Liam Hemsworth, and it feels like a love letter not just to him, but to a simpler, more grounded life. With soft guitar strums and a breezy melody, “Malibu” embraces a folk-pop sound that allowed Miley’s emotional honesty to take center stage. Her vocals are more restrained here—gentle, vulnerable, and full of gratitude. Lyrics like “I never would’ve believed you if three years ago you told me I’d be here” reflect a deep sense of personal growth and rediscovery. The track served as the lead single for her album Younger Now, signaling a return to her country-pop roots and a period of self-realignment. “Malibu” debuted at #10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was praised for its authenticity and emotional warmth. It marked a moment of pause in Miley’s ever-evolving journey—proof that sometimes, stepping back can be just as powerful as pushing forward.
8. “7 Things” (2008)
“7 Things,” released in June 2008, was a fiery, emotionally charged track that captured the highs and lows of teenage heartbreak. Widely speculated to be inspired by Miley Cyrus’ breakup with Nick Jonas, the song delivered pop-punk energy with a dose of honest vulnerability. In the lyrics, Miley lists the seven things she hates about her ex—only to reveal that she still loves him too, adding a bittersweet twist. The song’s chorus is loud, catchy, and full of relatable angst, making it an anthem for anyone nursing their first broken heart. The music video, which features a diverse group of girls venting their frustrations, created a shared emotional space for fans to feel seen and understood. As the lead single from her Breakout album, “7 Things” was a major step away from her Hannah Montana persona, showing she was ready to speak her truth, even when it stung. It peaked at #9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a beloved throwback for fans who grew up with her. “7 Things” is more than just a breakup song—it’s a snapshot of young love, confusion, and the messy beauty of growing up.
9. “Slide Away” (2019)
“Slide Away,” released in August 2019, is one of Miley Cyrus’ most introspective and poignant songs. Marking the end of her relationship with Liam Hemsworth, the track radiates quiet resignation and emotional clarity. Rather than dwell in bitterness, Miley sings from a place of acceptance, acknowledging that sometimes, even love runs its course. With lyrics like “Move on, we’re not 17,” she gently lets go of a past that no longer fits, recognizing the changes time and maturity bring. The song’s production is ethereal and stripped back, allowing her voice to take the lead—aching, vulnerable, and honest. There’s a dreamlike sadness woven throughout, with ocean metaphors symbolizing emotional distance and inevitability. Though it didn’t top the charts, “Slide Away” was widely praised for its rawness and restraint, offering fans a rare, unfiltered glimpse into Miley’s personal life. It’s a song that doesn’t shout—it sighs. And in doing so, it resonates with anyone who’s had to quietly walk away from something they once cherished. “Slide Away” may be subdued, but its emotional impact lingers long after the final note fades.
10. “See You Again” (2007)
“See You Again,” released in December 2007, was the spark that ignited Miley Cyrus’ solo career outside of the Hannah Montana universe. Featured on her debut album Meet Miley Cyrus, the song blends dance-pop energy with a touch of rock swagger, creating a fresh sound that felt both youthful and mature. Its hook—“The last time I freaked out…”—delivered the kind of dramatic, diary-entry storytelling that resonated with teens navigating the chaos of first crushes. The chorus is infectious and quirky, introducing audiences to Miley’s unique voice and charismatic delivery. At the time, it was a bold step—proof that she had the chops to move beyond her Disney roots. “See You Again” climbed to #10 on the Billboard Hot 100, earning Miley her first major solo hit and planting the seeds for her ever-evolving artistry. The song’s blend of confidence and awkward charm gave it lasting appeal, and it remains a nostalgic favorite among fans. Looking back, “See You Again” was the first sign that Miley Cyrus was ready to shake things up—and that she had the talent and personality to do it her own way.
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.
