Miley Cyrus has recently revisited a moment from her past that sparked considerable controversy, specifically her performance at the 2009 Teen Choice Awards. During a heartfelt discussion with her sister, Brandi Cyrus, on Spotify’s Billions Club series, Miley reflected on her iconic rendition of “Party in the U.S.A.” The performance became infamous due to Miley, then just 17, dancing atop an ice cream cart that featured a pole, leading many to label it a “stripper pole.” Miley defended the pole, insisting it was merely for stability while she wore high heels. At the time, she was widely known for her role as Hannah Montana, which added to the shock factor of the performance.
In their conversation, Brandi brought up the notorious performance, prompting Miley to reveal who was behind the controversial idea. With humor and a touch of exasperation, Miley pointed out that it was indeed their mother, Tish Cyrus, who conceived the concept. The sisters laughed as they acknowledged Tish’s absence during the backlash that ensued after the performance. Despite the controversy, Miley expressed a sense of nostalgia, emphasizing a personal milestone associated with that night—the first time she wore real diamond jewelry on stage, which she fondly recalled alongside the drama of the ice cream truck.
Miley’s interview further addressed her artistic growth over the years. She noted that “Party in the U.S.A.” originated from a collection she created for Walmart, contrasting that humble beginning with her current status as the face of high-end brands like Gucci and Dolce & Gabbana. This evolution seems to underscore Miley’s multifaceted career trajectory, from her Disney roots to her current prominence in the entertainment industry. She articulated pride in her achievements, detailing how her journey has evolved from Walmart to high fashion, showcasing how significantly her brand has transformed.
Throughout the Billions Club discussion, Miley also reflected on her most successful singles, which have collectively garnered over a billion streams on Spotify. She specifically mentioned tracks including “Wrecking Ball,” “We Can’t Stop,” “Nothing Breaks Like a Heart,” “Angels Like You,” and her latest hit, “Flowers.” When Brandi reminded Miley that “Wrecking Ball” was her first No. 1 single, Miley offered a cheeky retort, indicating the playful family dynamic and the ongoing evolution of Miley’s persona as an artist.
As the conversation delved into the inspiration behind “Wrecking Ball,” Miley candidly pointed to her tumultuous relationship with ex-husband Liam Hemsworth, stating bluntly, “My man wasn’t acting right.” This comment served as a reflection of her emotional experiences that shaped her songwriting. Miley and Liam’s relationship has been publicly chronicled, from their red carpet debut in 2010 after meeting on the set of “The Last Song,” to multiple engagements and ultimately their marriage in December 2018, which ended less than a year later with a divorce finalized in January 2020.
Currently, Miley Cyrus is dating musician Maxx Morando, with their relationship making headlines since they were first linked in early 2022. As Miley reflects on her past and present in both her professional and personal life, it reveals a journey marked by growth, resilience, and transformation, evidencing her enduring presence in the ever-changing landscape of the entertainment industry. With the insight shared in her interview, Miley appears to embrace her history, both the highs and lows, while looking forward to what lies ahead in her career and relationships.