Don’t Call Me Angel

Miley Cyrus, born Destiny Hope Cyrus on November 23, 1992, in Franklin, Tennessee, is an American singer, songwriter, actress, and philanthropist. She rose to international fame as a teen sensation before shedding her Disney persona to become a trailblazing artist known for her radical musical and personal transformations.

Miley's childhood was steeped in the world of country music. As the daughter of country star Billy Ray Cyrus and producer Tish Cyrus, she was exposed to the entertainment industry from a young age. Her godmother is none other than music legend Dolly Parton, a relationship that has deeply influenced her career. Her early nickname, "Smiley," eventually evolved into her stage name and, in 2008, she legally changed her name to Miley Ray Cyrus, a tribute to her father.

At age 12, Miley landed the lead role in the Disney Channel series Hannah Montana, which centered on a girl with a secret double life as a pop star. The show became a global hit, turning Cyrus into a teen idol and a merchandising goldmine. The success of the show launched her music career, with soundtrack albums topping the charts. Her first solo album not tied to the franchise, Breakout (2008), proved her viability as a solo artist.

Miley Cyrus as the iconic Hannah Montana.

Miley's most significant transformation came with her fourth studio album, Bangerz. This era was defined by a shift toward a provocative, hip-hop-infused pop sound and a bold new public image. The album produced global smash hits like "We Can't Stop" and the power ballad "Wrecking Ball," which became her first song to reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100. The music video for "Wrecking Ball" became a viral sensation, earning her a Grammy nomination and solidifying her status as a pop provocateur.

Following the commercial success of Bangerz, Miley embarked on a series of musical explorations:

• Miley Cyrus & Her Dead Petz (2015): An experimental, psychedelic rock album released for free, showcasing a fearless artistic side.
• Younger Now (2017): A return to her country roots, this album featured a stripped-down, folk-pop sound and the hit single "Malibu."
• Plastic Hearts (2020): A powerful pivot to rock music, this album was both a critical and commercial success. It featured collaborations with rock legends Billy Idol and Joan Jett.
• Endless Summer Vacation (2023): This album cemented her legacy with the global smash hit "Flowers," an anthem of self-love that earned her her first two Grammy Awards for Record of the Year and Best Pop Solo Performance in 2024.

Miley Cyrus with her two Grammy Awards for "Flowers."

Miley's acting career has continued alongside her musical pursuits. She starred in the film The Last Song (2010), where she met her future husband, actor Liam Hemsworth. She has also made notable TV appearances, including a coaching role on The Voice and a critically acclaimed performance in an episode of the anthology series Black Mirror.

A passionate advocate for social causes, Miley founded the Happy Hippie Foundation in 2014. This non-profit organization is dedicated to fighting injustice for homeless youth and LGBTQ+ youth. Her consistent use of her platform to promote equality and support vulnerable communities has made her a powerful voice for change.