From Disney darling to global pop provocateur, Miley Cyrus has carved one of the most fascinating, fearless paths in modern music. With a voice that can roar like a rock star and whisper like a country poet, she’s never been afraid to reinvent herself—or her sound. Whether she’s swinging from a wrecking ball, strumming a guitar by the ocean, or lighting up a disco groove in a gold dress, Miley’s music captures raw emotion, bold attitudes, and unapologetic authenticity. Over the years, she’s gifted us a soundtrack to heartbreaks, parties, glow-ups, and everything in between.
In this countdown of the Top 10 Most Popular Miley Cyrus Songs of All Time, we dive into the tracks that defined her career and dominated the charts. These aren’t just hits—they’re cultural moments, streaming juggernauts, and fan anthems that showcase her evolution from teen idol to genre-blending powerhouse. From the heartfelt ballads that brought us to tears to the fierce anthems that made us dance, every song on this list has left a mark on music history. So whether you’re a Smiler from day one or a newfound fan, get ready to relive Miley’s most iconic musical moments—one unforgettable track at a time.
1. Flowers (2023)
Miley Cyrus struck gold with “Flowers,” a self-love anthem that became a global sensation upon its release in January 2023. From its disco-tinged groove to its empowering lyrics, the track flipped the script on heartbreak and transformed it into a message of strength, confidence, and independence. Inspired in part by Bruno Mars’ “When I Was Your Man,” Cyrus delivers a subtle yet powerful response, reclaiming the narrative from a woman’s point of view. Her vocals—warm, confident, and emotionally grounded—reflect an artist fully in command of her sound and message. The song’s release couldn’t have been more timely, striking a chord with listeners craving messages of resilience and personal growth. Accompanied by a stylish, viral music video that shows Miley confidently striding through Los Angeles in striking fashion, “Flowers” quickly became more than just a hit—it became a cultural moment. It topped charts in over 35 countries and shattered Spotify’s single-week streaming records, reaffirming her global star power. With “Flowers,” Miley didn’t just deliver a catchy pop song—she delivered a mission statement. It’s a celebration of rediscovery and standing tall after heartbreak, and it marked a definitive chapter in her artistic evolution.
2. Wrecking Ball (2013)
“Wrecking Ball” wasn’t just a song—it was a reckoning. Released in 2013, it marked a dramatic turning point in Miley Cyrus’s career, shedding her Disney past and showcasing raw emotional depth. Produced by Dr. Luke and Cirkut, the power ballad layered thunderous instrumentation with deeply vulnerable lyrics, capturing the aftermath of a broken relationship. But it was the music video—where Miley famously swung naked on an actual wrecking ball—that made headlines across the globe. The imagery was provocative and polarizing, but it also symbolized a young woman crashing through old boundaries to reveal her true self. Beneath the spectacle, the track revealed impressive vocal control and emotional maturity. “Wrecking Ball” hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, earning Miley her first chart-topping single and cementing her place as a pop force to be reckoned with. More than a controversy magnet, the song’s lasting impact lies in its brutal honesty and powerhouse delivery. A decade later, it remains one of her most iconic and emotionally resonant works—a bold declaration that Miley Cyrus was no longer playing it safe.
3. Party in the U.S.A. (2009)
Few songs capture a cultural moment like “Party in the U.S.A.” did in 2009. Originally written by Jessie J, Dr. Luke, and Claude Kelly, the track was meant for another artist, but Miley Cyrus made it her own with an effortlessly charming performance that oozed American pop optimism. The song chronicles a nervous arrival in Los Angeles and the comforting power of music, with shoutouts to Jay-Z and Britney Spears that instantly connected with young listeners navigating their own growing pains. It’s a snapshot of youthful confidence, independence, and discovery—all wrapped in an impossibly catchy melody. Despite being released on a Walmart-exclusive EP, The Time of Our Lives, the song exploded on radio and became an enduring staple at parties, sporting events, and national celebrations. Over the years, its popularity has only grown, often re-entering the charts during moments of collective celebration. “Party in the U.S.A.” is more than just a feel-good jam—it’s a nostalgic time capsule and a symbol of pop culture at its most joyful. For many, it’s the song that first made Miley Cyrus a household name outside of her Hannah Montana fame.
4. The Climb (2009)
Released in March 2009 as part of Hannah Montana: The Movie soundtrack, “The Climb” stands as one of Miley Cyrus’s most poignant and inspirational ballads. With lyrics centered around perseverance, self-discovery, and resilience, the song offered a mature message that resonated far beyond her teenage fan base. Written by Jessi Alexander and Jon Mabe, it blends the warmth of country music with the broad appeal of pop, creating an emotional anthem that struck a chord with listeners of all ages. Miley’s vocal performance is heartfelt and earnest, capturing both vulnerability and strength with impressive balance. While it didn’t top the Billboard Hot 100, it dominated the Adult Contemporary and Country charts and became a favorite at graduations, talent shows, and motivational events. “The Climb” was more than just a song from a movie—it was a statement of personal growth that reflected Miley’s own evolving artistry. Even today, it remains a beloved track that continues to inspire people facing challenges, reminding them that the journey often matters more than the destination. It’s a timeless anthem of hope that helped define her early career and still holds emotional weight today.
5. Midnight Sky (2020)
“Midnight Sky,” released in August 2020, marked a dazzling turn in Miley Cyrus’s musical journey, blending rock, synth-pop, and glam into a bold declaration of independence. Drawing inspiration from icons like Stevie Nicks and David Bowie, the song radiates retro-cool energy while still feeling modern and personal. With gravel-edged vocals and shimmering synths, Miley channels both pain and empowerment, telling a story of transformation after emotional upheaval. Co-written by Cyrus during a period of personal growth, “Midnight Sky” is full of lyrical defiance and stylish swagger. “I was born to run, I don’t belong to anyone,” she sings, reclaiming her identity with striking clarity. The self-directed music video, full of vibrant colors and 1980s glam-rock aesthetics, enhanced the song’s fearless tone and artistic vision. “Midnight Sky” served as the perfect lead-in to her critically acclaimed album Plastic Hearts, ushering in a new rock-forward phase of her career. While it wasn’t her most commercially dominant single, it resonated deeply with fans and critics alike, earning praise for its confidence and originality. It’s a compelling chapter in Cyrus’s evolution—a glittering anthem of freedom, power, and self-realization.
6. We Can’t Stop (2013)
When Miley Cyrus released “We Can’t Stop” in 2013, she ignited one of the most talked-about transformations in pop music. As the lead single from her Bangerz album, the track boldly stepped away from her wholesome image and into a world of edgy, trap-infused pop. Produced by Mike WiLL Made-It, the song’s hypnotic beat and laid-back groove set the stage for lyrics drenched in youthful rebellion and unapologetic freedom. Lines like “It’s our party, we can do what we want” quickly became cultural mantras for a generation eager to break free of expectations. The music video—a surreal, chaotic visual filled with stuffed animals, twerking, and Goldilocks symbolism—cemented her place as a pop provocateur, sparking endless headlines and debates. But beneath the shock value, “We Can’t Stop” was an expertly crafted anthem about self-expression and defiance. It peaked at #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and signaled the beginning of a bold new era for Miley. With this single, she not only redefined her public persona but also proved she was a force to be reckoned with in modern pop music—on her own terms.
7. Malibu (2017)
“Malibu,” released in 2017, signaled a significant shift in Miley Cyrus’s musical direction—one that embraced vulnerability, love, and a return to her roots. After years of pushing boundaries and making bold statements, this breezy, sun-kissed track offered a softer, more introspective side. Inspired by her rekindled relationship with actor Liam Hemsworth, “Malibu” captures the feeling of emotional renewal and peace. Its acoustic-pop production, co-written by Cyrus herself, features gentle guitars and minimal instrumentation, allowing her vocals to shine with warmth and clarity. There’s a sense of sincerity and groundedness that runs through every lyric, reflecting both personal growth and a newfound serenity. The accompanying music video, filled with scenic beaches, wide skies, and golden sunlight, perfectly mirrors the song’s tranquil mood. While “Malibu” didn’t reach the commercial peaks of her earlier hits, it was still a success and served as a meaningful introduction to her Younger Now album. For many fans, it marked a moment of clarity in Miley’s ever-evolving career—a heartfelt reminder that underneath the spectacle, she remains a gifted songwriter with a powerful emotional compass.
8. Slide Away (2019)
“Slide Away” arrived in August 2019 like a hushed confession in the midst of chaos. Released shortly after Miley Cyrus announced her split from Liam Hemsworth, the track carries the weight of heartbreak without falling into melodrama. Instead, it’s restrained, reflective, and achingly honest. “Move on, we’re not 17,” she sings, referencing the long history between them with both sadness and resolve. Produced by Andrew Wyatt and Mike WiLL Made-It, the song trades pop bombast for a dreamy, atmospheric vibe tinged with grunge and psychedelic elements. Miley’s vocals are raw yet composed, layered over melancholic guitar lines and subtle strings that swell with emotion. Unlike many of her chart-toppers, “Slide Away” wasn’t designed to dominate the radio—it was crafted to tell the truth. It’s a breakup song that eschews bitterness in favor of closure, maturity, and quiet strength. Critics praised its vulnerability, and fans embraced it as one of her most intimate tracks. “Slide Away” stands out in her catalog as a reminder that sometimes, less really is more—and that healing, though painful, can be beautiful too.
9. See You Again (2007)
“See You Again” marked a major milestone for Miley Cyrus, serving as the breakout hit that launched her solo music career beyond her Hannah Montana fame. Released in 2007 on her Meet Miley Cyrus album, the song is an upbeat dance-pop gem infused with rock energy and teenage excitement. Built around a driving beat and electric guitars, it captures the emotional rollercoaster of a youthful crush, brimming with nervous energy and longing. The unforgettable chorus—“I can’t wait to see you again”—became an instant singalong for teens everywhere, resonating with the universal thrill of first love. The track reached #10 on the Billboard Hot 100, giving Miley her first Top 10 hit under her own name and proving she had the charisma and vocal chops to stand on her own. “See You Again” was more than just a catchy tune; it was a statement of intent. It signaled the beginning of a new chapter—one where Miley could experiment, evolve, and eventually redefine herself outside the world of Disney. It remains a fan favorite and a defining moment in her early musical journey.
10. 7 Things (2008)
“7 Things,” released in 2008, is a fiery burst of teenage emotion wrapped in punky pop-rock. Rumored to be about Miley Cyrus’s relationship with Nick Jonas, the song reads like an open diary entry—raw, honest, and full of contradictions. It lists the things she “hates” about her ex, only to reveal in the chorus that the final item is still being in love with him. This blend of heartbreak, frustration, and lingering affection struck a chord with young listeners going through similar experiences. With its chugging guitars, catchy hook, and shout-along chorus, “7 Things” became an instant hit, peaking at #9 on the Billboard Hot 100. The music video—featuring real girls holding photos of their exes—further connected the song to its audience, offering an unfiltered look at the pain and confusion of a breakup. It was one of the first times Miley stepped into more emotionally complex territory, showing she could tackle love and loss with both vulnerability and grit. “7 Things” remains a standout in her discography—a fierce, relatable anthem that still resonates with anyone who’s ever loved, lost, and tried to sort through the mess of it all.
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.
