Miley Cyrus, who now performs professionally under the name Miley, recently shared poignant details about her final conversation with her godmother, Dolly Parton. The reflection emerged during an interview with Zane Lowe for the Apple Music podcast, prompted when Cyrus sent Parton an advance copy of her new album, “Bass Persuades.”
Parton, a pioneer in vinyl releases, traditionally sends the first printed copy to Cyrus. During their last exchange, Parton discussed the record, emphasizing the unique dynamic of their relationship. “Even though we are so different, that’s what made us so perfect for each other,” Parton told Lowe. She acknowledged Cyrus’s reputation for elaborate personas, hair, makeup, and theatricality, but noted that fans are ultimately drawn to her authenticity and realness.
Cyrus reflected on how her career, including her iconic role in Hannah Montana, involved significant persona construction. She described her stage presence as a form of “drag,” distinct from her private self, yet acknowledged that Parton was always there for her. Cyrus also revealed that Parton once questioned her tendency to cry during performances, specifically citing a appearance on Letterman where Cyrus broke down while singing “End of the World,” a track about losing her mother.
According to Cyrus, Parton’s advice was to maintain professionalism and view music as escapism. “She was like, ‘Music is escapism. Let them cry. You need to get through it,'” Cyrus recalled. While Cyrus felt that her emotional vulnerability was inherent to who she is, she emphasized that Parton loved her regardless of their differing approaches to public emotion.
The interview also touched on Cyrus’s collaboration with producer Max Martin, who encouraged her to transform what she considered “boring” ballads into more energetic tracks. Cyrus has continued to discuss her artistic evolution and the guidance she received from her godmother throughout her career.
Max Martin turning ballads into bangers again. Classic move, but I miss the softer Miley sometimes.
Bass Persuades? That’s a bold album title. Curious to hear if the sound matches the energy she described.
Wait, Dolly thought crying on stage was unprofessional? I find that surprising given her own emotional performances.
Love how Dolly emphasized that their differences made them perfect. Such a beautiful bond between two icons.