Miley Cyrus Honors George Clooney with a Soulful Country Rendition
Although Miley Cyrus is primarily known as a pop artist with chart-topping hits such as ‘Flowers’ and ‘Wrecking Ball’, her music also displays notable country elements, probably inspired by her father, country star Billy Ray Cyrus. This influence likely played a role in Cyrus delivering a remarkable rendition of the country/bluegrass track ‘Man of Constant Sorrow’ at the American Institute in 2018, with the video subsequently amassing over 8 million online views.
Cyrus took the stage during a tribute show celebrating actor George Clooney following his receipt of the AFI lifetime achievement award. The song she performed was initially sung by Clooney’s character in the 2000 film ‘Oh Brother, Where Art Thou?’, in a scene that has become iconic in modern cinema. Cyrus unquestionably paid homage to the scene, with her rich, country-infused vocals bringing the song a renewed sense of strength and energy.
The audience that evening in 2018 clearly appreciated it, as the live crowd applauded and cheered when Cyrus finished her performance, and Clooney clapped enthusiastically with a broad smile as the singer greeted him. Unsurprisingly, the performance has received nearly 4,000 online comments, with many viewers praising Cyrus’s vocal versatility. “She can really do it all,” comments one impressed viewer, “Such a powerful and interesting voice, and such creativity!”.
Another example of Cyrus revitalizing a classic country song is evident in her 2019 Glastonbury festival performance, where she rocked Dolly Parton’s ‘Jolene’. Dressed in leather pants, a white crop top, high-heeled boots, and layers of gold jewelry, Cyrus embodies feminine strength as she confidently navigates the stage, infusing her own pop-inspired flair into a song widely considered a country music staple.
Watching both of these performances highlights that Cyrus’s global fame is well-deserved. Brimming with vocal talent and stage presence, she skillfully manages any type of performance required of her, whether it’s a heartfelt tribute to “America’s leading man” George Clooney or a flawlessly cool Glastonbury set that exudes energy and strength.
