Miley Cyrus Reflects: “I Was the First Person to Maybe Ever Be Cancelled”

Exploring Miley Cyrus’s bold journey from Disney darling to pop culture lightning rod, embracing the highs and lows of being “cancelled.”

The Early Storm: When Miley Faced the Cancel Culture First

If you've ever marveled at Miley Cyrus's fearless evolution, you're not alone. On CBS Sunday Morning, Miley dropped a revelation that hits like a lightning bolt: she believes she was “the first person to maybe ever be cancelled.” Yep, before cancel culture became the social media beast it is today, Miley was already living through that whirlwind.

Remember the Bangerz era? That 2013 album wasn't just music; it was a cultural moment. Miley's daring shift from wholesome Disney starlet to provocative pop rebel sparked outrage and debate. Singing openly about drugs, flaunting a more sexualized image, and borrowing elements of Black culture stirred up backlash like a firestorm. Moms everywhere were clutching their pearls—and some were even trying to “cancel” her.

When asked about those turbulent days, Miley acknowledged the brutality: “I didn’t know until I was older, actually, how brutal it really was. It was very challenging for other people, but for me it was a good time. It looked fun and it was fun.” It’s wild to think how this young artist was navigating a cultural minefield while seemingly having a blast.

Yet, with the hindsight of maturity, she reflects differently: “I would never now, being where I am, ever look at someone in their 20s from the view of who I am now. But at the time, it was awesome.”

A Glimpse Into the Past: Miley’s Cancelled Moments

Miley's acknowledgment that she might be the original target of cancel culture is fascinating. Long before Twitter mobs and viral hashtags, she was trailblazing a path that many now recognize as a “cancelled” trajectory.

Back then, it wasn’t just about social media backlash—it was a full-on cultural clash. Critics and fans alike grappled with Miley's sharp pivot away from her Hannah Montana image, fueling discussions about artistic freedom, cultural appropriation, and the boundaries of celebrity behavior.

Her honesty about the experience offers a raw look at the pressures young stars face. It wasn’t just the criticism; it was the sheer intensity and public nature of it.

The Music That Marked Her Evolution: ‘Something Beautiful’

Fast forward to May last year, and Miley unveiled her ninth studio album, Something Beautiful. While it didn’t explode with chart-topping hits, critics praised it as a “fully realized artistic statement.” This post-genre pop star took another big swing, crafting sprawling soundscapes unshackled by trends.

One standout track, “Secrets,” features none other than Fleetwood Mac legends Mick Fleetwood and Lindsey Buckingham. This collaboration is more than a tune; it’s a healing balm for Miley, dedicated to her father, Billy Ray Cyrus.

“This song was written as a peace offering for someone I had lost for a time but always loved. In my experience, forgiveness and freedom are one and the same.” — Miley Cyrus

That line speaks volumes about her personal growth and the emotional depth behind her music now.

Mental Wellness and Touring: Miley’s Honest Take

While many fans might be itching for a Miley tour, the singer herself has admitted she still has no “desire” to hit the road. Mental health has taken center stage in her life, and she candidly shared: “It’s really hard to keep mental wellness.” In a world that demands nonstop performance and public appearances, her openness about self-care is refreshing and relatable.

Wrapping It Up: A Star Who’s Seen It All

Miley Cyrus’s journey has been anything but smooth. From being “the first to maybe ever be cancelled” to releasing mature, heartfelt music, she’s navigated the choppy waters of fame with bravery and candor.

Her story reminds us that growth often involves messy, misunderstood chapters, but those moments can lead to beautiful reinvention.

FAQ

• How did Miley Cyrus react to being “cancelled”?
  She reflected that while it was brutal, it was also a fun and challenging time, and with age, she views that period with more understanding.
• What was controversial about Miley’s Bangerz era?
  The album and its promotion involved drug references, a sexualized image, and cultural appropriation, which sparked widespread backlash.
• What’s special about the song “Secrets” from Something Beautiful?
  It’s a collaboration with Mick Fleetwood and Lindsey Buckingham of Fleetwood Mac, dedicated to her father as a symbolic peace offering.
• Is Miley Cyrus planning to tour soon?
  As of her recent statements, she has no desire to tour, prioritizing her mental wellness.
• How has Miley’s music style evolved over the years?
  She’s moved from Disney pop to a post-genre artist who embraces experimental sounds and deeply personal themes.

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