Bangerz is the ultimate guilty pleasure that you keep a secret from your loved ones and enjoy in the privacy of your own dorm room. Miley Cyrus has created a musical masterpiece that is so wrong that it feels right. The album is a rollercoaster ride of emotions, ranging from self-aware anthems of a wild child to heartbreak, reflecting the ups and downs of a 20-something’s life. The carefree vibe of songs like “SMS (Bangerz)” and “Love, Money, Party” contrasts with the familiar pain of lost love in tracks like “Wrecking Ball” and “Maybe You’re Right.” Undoubtedly, “We Can’t Stop” and “Wrecking Ball” are the standout hits on Bangerz and the only songs that appeal to a broader audience. The southern hip-hop influence is evident throughout the album, with Cyrus even trying her hand at rapping, although it is not her strongest lyrical moment, as she mentions an orangutan. Bangerz is not a deep album by any means, with lyrics that explore topics such as suspect text messages and preferring a vibrator over a boyfriend. Nevertheless, no one was expecting the next “Peace Train” from the artist who gave us “Party in the U.S.A.” In “FU,” Cyrus showcases her vocal range, belting it out like some of the great female singers, and it’s easy to see why.
Miley Cyrus has caused quite a stir with her recent VMA performance, which has only added to the excitement surrounding her upcoming fourth studio album, Bangerz. The album is a testament to Cyrus’ growth from her days as the sweet, double-life-leading Hannah Montana to her current persona as the bold and daring Miley 2.0, complete with a grill and miniature peroxide buns. While some may be surprised by her transformation, it’s important to remember that many young adults in their twenties exhibit a unique and self-aware wildness that Cyrus has captured perfectly. Her fashion choices, such as the revival of the “Pretty Woman” hooker dress, crop tops, and super-stacked platform shoes, coupled with an “I don’t care if I look crazy” attitude, showcase a rebellious confidence and independence.
Cyrus has been spotted sporting red carpet attire that could have been easily replicated by Forever 21 and GoJane a few years back. More daring dance moves could be witnessed on Sixth Street on a Thursday night. Cyrus has received criticism for her new image, which is not particularly Sexy. If we look back at the VMAs, we see Cyrus playing with long hair that was obviously fake and sticking out her tongue while emerging from a teddy bear. It’s an unusual and playful performance that is anything but sensual.
The evolution of pop princesses like Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera has been marked by increasingly revealing performances. One memorable example was Spears’ controversial nude crystal bodysuit at the 2000 VMAs, which was deemed acceptable because of her sex appeal. However, Miley Cyrus has taken things to a new level of sexual saturation that has made her less mainstream and more niche. Her lyrics in “4 x 4” are not typically considered sexy, and her Southern accent only adds to the unusual contrast. Despite this, Bangerz proves that there is still room for unconventional artists like Cyrus in the pop world. She is becoming a force to be reckoned with and doesn’t care what others think. In short, she’s just being Miley.
