Miley Cyrus Shares Behind-the-Scenes Insights on Her Infamous Live Performance

In a revealing conversation with her sister Brandi Cyrus on Spotify’s Billions Club series, the 32-year-old pop sensation, Miley Cyrus, opened up about one of her most talked-about performances. This specific event occurred when she was just 16 years old and featured her dancing on stage with a pole that was attached to an ice cream cart during her iconic song “Party in the U.S.A.” This performance not only made headlines but also sparked various opinions among fans and critics alike, highlighting the complexity of growing up in the public eye as a child star.

“This is going to be no surprise to you. Do you know whose idea that was?” Miley inquired playfully to her sister, who guessed that their mother, Tish Cyrus, was behind it. “Yup, that was my mom’s idea. So she always lets me take the blame,” the “Flowers” hitmaker affirmed with a hint of humor. “When I got in trouble the next day, you know who was nowhere to be found? Tish Cyrus.” This exchange not only showcases the familial bond between Miley and Brandi but also the dynamic nature of parental influence in shaping a young artist’s career.

The song “Party in the U.S.A.,” featured on Miley’s 2009 EP, The Time of Our Lives, achieved significant commercial success, peaking at an impressive No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This track not only catapulted her to fame but also solidified her status as a mainstream pop artist, attracting a diverse fanbase who resonated with the song’s catchy melody and relatable lyrics.

While the pole dancing routine drew criticism from various corners, with many believing it was an inappropriate choice for a young Hannah Montana star given her impressionable audience, Miley reflected on the performance with a sense of nostalgia and pride. She explained that what stood out to her most about that iconic performance was not the backlash but rather the unique opportunity to wear genuine diamond jewelry on stage for the very first time.

Miley highlighted the significance of that moment, sharing, “The thing that I remember most about that performance was it was the first time I ever wore real diamond jewelry on stage,” she told Brandi. “So you guys remember the little old ice cream truck, but I remember the diamonds.” This statement emphasizes how personal experiences and milestones can sometimes overshadow external perceptions, especially in the world of entertainment.

Previously, Miley has discussed her live debut of “Party in the U.S.A.” at the 2009 Teen Choice Awards in various interviews and social media platforms. In a recent “Used to Be Young” TikTok video, she humorously clarified that the pole was primarily used for “stability,” shedding light on the creative process behind her performance.

“My mom was like, ‘I think it would be really cool if she was in the trailer park, ’cause that’s where we really do come from,’” Miley playfully mimicked Tish’s voice. “So, apparently me dancing on an ice cream cart with a stripper pole, but it wasn’t a stripper pole, it was actually just for stability. I had a heel on! Like what did you want from me?” she added with a laugh. “Was I really gonna do my performance without dancing on top of an ice cream cart?” This lighthearted recollection reveals Miley’s ability to embrace her past while also showcasing her growth as an artist and individual.