Miley Cyrus is best known as a pop star, with huge hits like Flowers and Wrecking Ball that have taken over the charts. But if you listen closely to her music, you’ll hear something special—hints of country and bluegrass influences. This isn’t surprising, given that her father is none other than country music legend Billy Ray Cyrus. Maybe that’s why, in 2018, Miley shocked and amazed the audience with her powerful performance of Man of Constant Sorrow.
The performance happened at a special event honoring actor George Clooney, who had just received the prestigious AFI Lifetime Achievement Award. The song Miley chose wasn’t just any country song—it was the same one Clooney’s character “sang” in the 2000 film O Brother, Where Art Thou?. That scene is legendary in movie history, and Miley had big shoes to fill. But when she took the stage, she didn’t just sing the song—she owned it.
With her deep, smoky voice and country twang, she brought a whole new energy to Man of Constant Sorrow. Her version was powerful, raw, and electric in a way no one had heard before. As she belted out the lyrics, the audience sat spellbound, their eyes locked on her. And when she finished, the room exploded with cheers and applause. Clooney himself clapped with a wide grin, clearly impressed.
“She can really do it all,” one fan commented online. “Such a powerful and interesting voice, and such creativity!” Others echoed the praise, leading to nearly 4,000 comments and over 8 million views on the performance’s video.
But this wasn’t the only time Miley put her own spin on a country classic. In 2019, she hit the stage at the Glastonbury Festival for another unforgettable moment—this time, a fiery performance of Jolene, the legendary song by her godmother, Dolly Parton.
Dressed in black leather pants, a white crop top, towering high-heeled boots, and layers of gold jewelry, Miley looked like a true rockstar. She strutted across the stage with confidence, pouring every ounce of energy into the song. Her voice soared, mixing country soul with her signature pop edge, making the song sound fresh and thrilling. The crowd roared in approval, completely swept up in her performance.
Watching these two performances, one thing is crystal clear: Miley Cyrus isn’t just a pop star—she’s a musical powerhouse. Whether she’s delivering a heartfelt tribute to “America’s leading man,” George Clooney, or rocking the stage at one of the world’s biggest festivals, she proves time and time again that she can do it all.
What do you think of Miley’s performances? Have you seen them? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
