Miley Cyrus talks ‘Something Beautiful’ and her ever-changing style : NPR

Miley Cyrus, who has captured the world’s attention for over two decades, continues to evolve both musically and personally. Her latest album, Something Beautiful, reflects this restless quest for identity, highlighting her artistic diversity and emotional depth. Released in May, the album recently saw a deluxe edition launch, featuring two new tracks that further showcase her creative range.

An Ever-Changing Identity

Cyrus first rose to fame as a teenager on Disney’s Hannah Montana, a role that catalyzed her transformation into a pop icon. However, she admits in conversations that her personal evolution has often mirrored her on-screen character. “I’ve never really been a super consistent person,” she shared in an interview. This candid admission points to the ongoing struggle many artists face in balancing public personas with private realities.

Through the years, Cyrus has navigated the tumultuous waters of Hollywood, experiencing tremendous shifts in style and sound. Unlike others who may display a singular vision, she embraces her multifaceted nature, challenging both herself and her fans to explore the different facets of her artistry.

The Kaleidoscope of Something Beautiful

Something Beautiful stands as a testament to Cyrus’s musical versatility. A fusion of genres, including disco, jazz, soul, R&B, and psychedelic rock, the album illustrates her willingness to explore new sounds while staying authentic. The deluxe version adds two new tracks, notably “Secrets” and a collaboration called “Lockdown.”

“Secrets” features legendary musicians Lindsey Buckingham and Mick Fleetwood, emblematic of the emotional narrative she weaves throughout the album. Written about her complex relationship with her father, Billy Ray Cyrus, the song serves as a peace offering following years of estrangement. “I wanted him to know that I’m grown now… I’m as much a friend as I am his kid,” she remarked, revealing the depth of her songwriting. Emphasizing her desire for reconciliation, the poignant lyrics resonate with anyone who has grappled with familial relationships.

Collaborations and Inspirations

Collaborations have been a hallmark of Cyrus’s career, and her work with David Byrne on “Lockdown” illustrates her ability to merge influences across musical eras. Byrne’s legacy with the Talking Heads comes alive in this 13-minute psychedelic journey, which Cyrus describes as a “love letter” to his impact on her music. “When you think about Talking Heads, they’re one of the best pop bands ever,” Cyrus explains, underlining her reverence for well-crafted hooks and melodies.

These collaborative efforts signal not only her artistic ambitions but a deep respect for her musical predecessors. With each collaboration, Cyrus further solidifies her standing as an artist willing to learn from the best while carving out her unique path.

Recognition and Continued Growth

Cyrus’s dynamic career has also garnered her significant acclaim, including her first three Grammys in the past two years. Two of these awards were for her infectious hit “Flowers,” and another was for a collaboration with Beyoncé on the country song “II MOST WANTED.” Despite this recognition, Cyrus maintains a grounded perspective: “It definitely can’t become the compass,” she warns. Instead, she sees awards as validation without dictating her upcoming artistic endeavors.

This mindset exemplifies Cyrus’s commitment to authenticity. While navigating her public persona can be challenging, her focus remains on producing work that resonates with her truth rather than chasing accolades.

Reflecting on Consistency

Cyrus’s exploration of identity raises questions about the nature of consistency in personal and artistic realms. Can one maintain a coherent identity while constantly evolving? For many artists, the pressure to fit a specific mold can be overwhelming. Cyrus chooses a different route, embracing the idea that growth can also encompass periods of uncertainty. “…I look back a year later and ask myself, ‘Who was that person?’” she reflects. This self-awareness is a powerful reminder that evolution is an intrinsic aspect of creativity.

Conclusion: A Journey of Self-Discovery

Miley Cyrus remains an intriguing figure, exemplifying the complexity of modern celebrity life. Through her willingness to experiment and her candid exploration of personal relationships, she has carved a niche that invites audiences into her world. Something Beautiful, as reflected in its deluxe version, showcases her evolution while honoring those who have influenced her journey.

The conversation around Cyrus is not just about the music but the overarching narrative of self-discovery. Her ability to share her vulnerabilities—whether through lyricism or candid interviews—creates a unique connection with fans who resonate with her experiences. As she continues to challenge herself creatively, one thing is certain: Miley Cyrus is not just an artist; she is a constant work in progress, inspiring others to embrace their complexities along the way.

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