From Disney Channel darling to pop powerhouse, Miley Cyrus has carved out one of the most dynamic and unpredictable careers in modern music. With a voice that can soar from heartfelt ballads to gritty rock anthems—and a fearless approach to reinvention—Miley has kept fans on their toes for more than a decade. Whether she’s swinging from a wrecking ball, dancing in Malibu, or declaring her independence with a disco groove, her music has always been bold, emotional, and unapologetically her. But which songs have truly stood the test of time? In this countdown, we’re diving into the top 10 most popular Miley Cyrus songs of all time—the tracks that defined eras, dominated charts, and captured hearts around the world. These aren’t just fan favorites—they’re cultural moments, viral sensations, and powerful testaments to her evolution as an artist. From early hits that introduced her to the world to recent anthems of empowerment and growth, each song tells a story of transformation, resilience, and raw authenticity. Whether you’ve followed her journey since the Hannah Montana days or jumped on the bandwagon with Flowers, this list is your ultimate guide to the biggest and most beloved songs in Miley’s ever-expanding catalog. Let’s dive in!
1. “Party in the U.S.A.” (2009)
Released in 2009, “Party in the U.S.A.” wasn’t just a pop hit—it was a cultural moment. Written by Jessie J, Claude Kelly, and Dr. Luke, the track tells the story of a young girl arriving in Los Angeles with dreams in her suitcase and nerves in her stomach. Miley Cyrus brought that narrative to life with her cheerful delivery and signature charisma, turning the song into a feel-good anthem for a generation. The track’s bouncy rhythm, catchy chorus, and vivid storytelling made it instantly relatable, especially for young people navigating change. It peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and quickly became a staple at parties, school dances, and even political rallies. Over the years, “Party in the U.S.A.” has taken on a life of its own, resurfacing around national holidays and cementing its place as a modern American pop classic. More than just a fun tune, it symbolized Miley’s breakout from her Hannah Montana persona, ushering in the next phase of her career as a full-fledged pop star who could dominate the charts while connecting with fans through a shared sense of excitement, vulnerability, and national pride.
2. “Wrecking Ball” (2013)
“Wrecking Ball,” released in 2013, stands as one of the most powerful and defining tracks in Miley Cyrus’s discography. Penned by Sacha Skarbek, Maureen “Mozella” McDonald, and Lukasz Gottwald, the ballad showcases Miley’s emotional depth and vocal range like never before. Built on the raw ache of heartbreak, the song’s lyrics and haunting melody lay bare the pain of loving someone who ultimately causes devastation. But it wasn’t just the sound that made “Wrecking Ball” a pop culture lightning bolt—it was the bold and controversial music video. With Miley swinging nude atop an actual wrecking ball, the visual became instantly iconic and sparked intense debate, both for its shock factor and its symbolism. The song debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking her first chart-topper and solidifying her post-Disney identity. Beneath the controversy was a song of staggering emotional resonance, allowing listeners to feel seen in their own experiences with loss and vulnerability. “Wrecking Ball” is more than a viral moment—it’s a career milestone that revealed Miley’s ability to take creative risks while delivering a song that still hits listeners right in the heart.
3. “Flowers” (2023)
With the release of “Flowers” in early 2023, Miley Cyrus delivered not just a hit song but a full-blown empowerment anthem. A sleek and confident track rooted in disco-pop and soul influences, “Flowers” flipped the heartbreak narrative on its head. Drawing inspiration—and lyrical contrast—from Bruno Mars’s “When I Was Your Man,” Miley reclaims her power with lines like “I can buy myself flowers” and “I can love me better than you can.” The result is a radiant declaration of self-love and independence that resonated globally. The song shot to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and stayed there for multiple weeks, becoming one of the most streamed songs of the year. Its relaxed groove, breezy production, and empowering lyrics struck a universal chord with fans who found strength in its message of healing after heartache. “Flowers” also signaled a new era for Miley—one of maturity, artistic refinement, and inner peace. The accompanying visuals, featuring her dancing freely and confidently, added to the song’s impact. More than just a breakup song, “Flowers” became a modern-day anthem for anyone learning to prioritize themselves and find joy in their own company.
4. “The Climb” (2009)
Released in 2009 as part of Hannah Montana: The Movie soundtrack, “The Climb” quickly became one of Miley Cyrus’s most cherished and inspiring songs. Written by Jessi Alexander and Jon Mabe, the song taps into the universal experience of facing obstacles and learning to embrace the journey rather than obsess over the destination. With heartfelt lyrics like “There’s always gonna be another mountain,” Miley’s emotional delivery turned the country-pop ballad into a beacon of hope and motivation. It struck a chord with fans of all ages, becoming a staple at school graduations, sports events, and any moment where perseverance was celebrated. Critically acclaimed for its uplifting message and mature tone, “The Climb” earned a Grammy nomination and peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100. It was a pivotal track in Miley’s early career, showing she could transcend her TV character and deliver music with lasting emotional weight. Over a decade later, “The Climb” continues to inspire, reminding listeners that success is found not just in reaching the top, but in the strength it takes to keep moving forward.
5. “Malibu” (2017)
“Malibu,” released in 2017, marked a reflective and serene chapter in Miley Cyrus’s ever-evolving career. Written with Oren Yoel, the track is a gentle, guitar-driven ode to love, personal growth, and finding peace after chaos. Inspired by her relationship with Liam Hemsworth and a renewed appreciation for the simple things in life, “Malibu” paints a sun-soaked picture of tranquility and gratitude. Departing from the provocative imagery of her Bangerz era, Miley embraced a softer, more natural image—both visually and musically. The song’s stripped-back production allowed her vocals to shine with vulnerability and sincerity, revealing a newfound maturity. It debuted at No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was praised for its honest tone and emotional restraint. The accompanying video, filled with breezy beach scenes and unfiltered moments, further solidified the song’s message of healing and personal evolution. “Malibu” didn’t just signal a change in sound—it marked a moment of clarity in Miley’s journey, proving that growth doesn’t always come with volume. Sometimes, it arrives like a quiet wave, gently carrying you to a better place.
6. “We Can’t Stop” (2013)
“We Can’t Stop” was the moment Miley Cyrus broke the mold—and the internet. Released in 2013 as the lead single from her Bangerz album, this moody, mid-tempo anthem was a full-force declaration of freedom, rebellion, and self-expression. Co-written by Miley, Mike WiLL Made-It, and Rock City, the song shed her Disney roots with bold lyrics about partying, autonomy, and living unapologetically. The music video—featuring surreal imagery, twerking, and a lot of tongue—sparked immediate controversy and media frenzy, but it also made one thing crystal clear: Miley was no longer playing by anyone’s rules. The track peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and ignited a cultural firestorm that dominated pop conversations for months. Critics and fans were divided, but the song’s impact was undeniable. It was provocative, yes—but it was also personal, marking a turning point in Miley’s identity as an artist who refused to be boxed in. “We Can’t Stop” remains a defining moment in her career, one where she didn’t just change her sound—she changed the conversation around what it means to grow up in the public eye.
7. “Midnight Sky” (2020)
“Midnight Sky,” released in 2020, saw Miley Cyrus fully embrace her rock influences while crafting one of her most confidently self-assured tracks to date. With nods to glam rock and synth-pop, the song evokes the rebellious spirit of icons like Stevie Nicks, Joan Jett, and Debbie Harry. Written during a period of personal change, the lyrics speak to independence and self-realization, with Miley declaring, “I was born to run, I don’t belong to anyone.” Her raspy vocals, layered over retro-tinged production, give the track a timeless edge while keeping it firmly grounded in the present. The song peaked at No. 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 and received widespread critical praise for its bold sound and empowering message. The accompanying music video, directed by Miley herself, is a shimmering, psychedelic visual that reinforces the song’s themes of liberation and individuality. “Midnight Sky” isn’t just another reinvention—it’s a revelation, showcasing an artist who’s not only found her voice but is using it to celebrate her freedom, her flaws, and her fierce sense of self.
8. “7 Things” (2008)
Released in 2008, “7 Things” is the quintessential teen breakup song—angry, vulnerable, and completely relatable. Co-written by Miley Cyrus and Antonina Armato, the track captures the rollercoaster of young love and betrayal. The lyrics list the seven things she hates about her ex—widely rumored to be Nick Jonas—but the twist is that she still kind of loves him, too. That emotional whiplash is what gives the song its charm. With its pop-rock edge, snarling guitars, and punchy chorus, “7 Things” was a departure from Miley’s bubblegum Hannah Montana sound and a step toward a more raw, confessional style. The accompanying music video, which features a group of teenage girls sharing their own heartbreak, deepened the connection with fans. It climbed to No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became an anthem for anyone going through their first taste of heartache. For many, “7 Things” was a musical diary entry—honest, messy, and cathartic. It remains a fan favorite for the way it captures the bittersweet emotions of young love gone wrong.
9. “Can’t Be Tamed” (2010)
“Can’t Be Tamed,” released in 2010, was Miley Cyrus’s bold announcement that she was breaking free—from her Disney past, from expectations, and from anyone trying to control her. The electro-pop banger is fierce, edgy, and unapologetic, pairing pulsating beats with lyrics about asserting independence and owning one’s true identity. The song’s accompanying video, featuring Miley in a birdcage before breaking loose in full glam-rock regalia, was a clear metaphor for her personal and artistic liberation. Co-written by Miley with Antonina Armato and Tim James, the track climbed to No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 and sparked widespread conversation. Though it received mixed reactions at the time—some weren’t ready for a grown-up Miley—it has since been recognized as a pivotal turning point in her career. “Can’t Be Tamed” wasn’t just about rebellion; it was about transformation. It was the sound of an artist demanding to be seen and heard on her own terms, setting the stage for the fearless experimentation and self-expression that would define her next decade.
10. “See You Again” (2007)
“See You Again,” released in 2007, was the first glimpse of Miley Cyrus stepping out from under the Hannah Montana spotlight—and she did so with undeniable charm. Co-written with longtime collaborators Antonina Armato and Tim James, the song blends pop-rock energy with infectious teen infatuation. With lyrics about nervous encounters and crushing hard, it struck a chord with listeners navigating similar emotions. Miley’s delivery is both confident and adorably awkward, capturing the thrill of young romance. The upbeat tempo, catchy hook, and slightly punky vibe made it a radio favorite and helped it climb to No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming her first major hit under her own name. It was a milestone not just for her music career, but for fans who were growing up alongside her. “See You Again” remains a nostalgic favorite, a time capsule of mid-2000s pop that holds up thanks to its genuine enthusiasm and unforgettable chorus. It marked the beginning of Miley’s journey into the mainstream music world—and hinted at the star power that was still to come.
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.
