Entertainment
Miley Cyrus Music Video Evolution, From Disney Princess To Pop Queen
Proof that versatility and longevity go hand-in-hand.
Since bursting onto the scene as a bright-eyed Disney star, Miley Cyrus has shaken up her image — and the industry — with each new era. From the mid aughts optimism of “Party In The USA” to her darker “Wrecking Ball” days to the multi-faceted, innovative artist she is now, Cyrus proves that versatility and longevity go hand-in-hand. Read on for a breakdown of Cyrus’ music video evolution.
“Start All Over” (2007)
Originally a Fefe Dobson song, “Start All Over” was Cyrus’ first music video and foray into pop stardom during her Hannah Montana days. It premiered on the Disney Channel and was “really random,” as 14-year-old Cyrus said at the time.
“7 Things” (2008)
Miley dipped her toe into the pop-punk waters and gave us this classic. Thank you, Nick Jonas.
“Party In The USA” (2009)
A cultural reset, proof that pop culture died after 2009, and the only acceptable form of patriotism.
“Can’t Be Tamed” (2010)
Miley’s message to a world that didn’t want to let her out of her gilded Disney cage.
“Jolene” (2012)
Miley’s stripped down “Backyard Sessions” are a testimony to the strength of her vocals, especially in her classic cover of godmother Dolly Parton’s “Jolene.”
“We Can’t Stop” (2013)
In which we enter Miley’s molly-doing, twerking-loving, dancing-teddy bear Bangerz era.
“Wrecking Ball” (2013)
Miley’s most iconic music video to date, even if it was directed by Terry Richardson.
“23” (2013)
This is camp, don’t ask us to explain it. In which Miley Cyrus slinks around a high school in a sports jersey with Mike WiLL Made-It, Wiz Khalifa and Juicy J -- and it bafflingly works.
“Adore You” (2013)
Who can forget the time Miley Cyrus writhed around in her bed sheets in this very nearly NSFW video?
“BB Talk” (2015)
Miley’s most overlooked era, Miley Cyrus & Her Dead Petz, also brought some of her most bizarre music videos. Like this one, in which she is dressed like a giant baby, massive bottle and all.
“Malibu” (2017)
Miley Cyrus is fresh-faced, rejuvenated, and madly in love with her now ex-husband and Malibu!
“Slide Away” (2019)
Miley Cyrus takes stock of all the ways she’s outgrown her L.A. party lifestyle in this reflective and unexpectedly sad video.
“Midnight Sky” (2020)
Miley’s simple quarantine video for “Midnight Sky” is still dazzling to watch, with her new ‘80s rock persona in razor sharp focus.
“Prisoner” ft. Dua Lipa (2020)
Dua Lipa and Miley Cyrus make an impeccable pop duo and this video deserves to be in the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame.