You’ve got to hear Miley Cyrus unleash her punk rock scream during “Rebel Yell” live with Billy Idol—it’s unreal!

Billy Idol and Miley Cyrus joined forces at the 2016 iHeartRadio Music Festival for a fiery rendition of Idol’s iconic 1983 hit “Rebel Yell.” The collaboration was electrifying, with Cyrus channeling Idol’s punk energy while bringing her own flair to the stage. Fans were immediately captivated as Idol introduced Cyrus with enthusiasm, calling her “Miley f—ing Cyrus!” The chemistry between the two performers was palpable from the start, setting the tone for a powerful performance that resonated deeply with the audience.

Cyrus, decked out in leather attire emblazoned with Idol’s name, paid homage to the rock legend while asserting her rockstar persona. Her energy complemented Idol’s rebellious stage presence, and together they ignited the crowd with a performance that was both nostalgic and contemporary. The moment Cyrus belted out the iconic chorus, it was clear that this was more than just a duet—it was a merging of generations. Idol’s raw, unfiltered style found a perfect partner in Cyrus’s bold, boundary-pushing artistry.

The performance stood out not only because of the iconic song but also due to the seamless blend of their voices. While Idol’s gruff and commanding vocals brought the signature edge to the track, Cyrus’s voice added a fresh, gritty tone that pushed the performance into overdrive. It was a testament to both artists’ ability to connect with audiences across different eras, keeping the spirit of rock and roll alive and thriving.

This duet was particularly special because it highlighted Cyrus’s evolution as an artist. Known initially for her Disney Channel days, she had, by 2016, fully embraced her more mature, provocative persona. Her ability to take on a song like “Rebel Yell” and perform it alongside a rock legend like Idol showcased her versatility and cemented her place as a force in the rock scene. Cyrus had been making waves with classic rock covers in the months leading up to the performance, including a notable cover of Bob Dylan’s “Baby, I’m in the Mood for You.” Her partnership with Idol at the iHeartRadio Festival was a natural progression in this phase of her career.

For Idol, performing with Cyrus was a reminder of his enduring influence in the music world. As someone who helped bring punk rock to the mainstream in the 1980s, Idol continues to inspire younger generations of artists. His residency at the House of Blues in Las Vegas around this time also kept him at the forefront of rock culture. Teaming up with a contemporary artist like Cyrus highlighted his ability to remain relevant and impactful decades after his initial rise to fame.

The crowd’s reaction was nothing short of ecstatic. Fans of both artists reveled in the high-energy performance, appreciating the fusion of Cyrus’s modern edge with Idol’s classic rock roots. The festival, known for bringing together a variety of genres and performers, became the perfect stage for this electrifying collaboration.

Cyrus’s reverence for Idol was apparent not just in her performance but also in her outfit—a leather jacket adorned with Idol’s face on the back. This was more than just a musical collaboration; it was a tribute to a rock icon who had paved the way for artists like her to break barriers and push the envelope.

“Rebel Yell” itself, a song about desire and defiance, fit the dynamic of the performance perfectly. The lyrics, originally penned by Idol in the early ’80s, took on a new life when delivered by Cyrus, who brought her own interpretation of rebellion and intensity to the song. The energy between the two was magnetic, and their shared love for rock and roll was on full display.

For those in attendance and viewers online, the performance became a defining moment of the 2016 festival, demonstrating the enduring power of rock music and its ability to unite generations. Idol’s raspy growl, paired with Cyrus’s youthful vigor, made this performance of “Rebel Yell” unforgettable and solidified it as a highlight in both their careers.

Their collaboration also served as a reminder of the cyclical nature of music, where older genres find new life through younger artists, creating a bridge between past and present. Whether it was the way Idol dominated the stage with his signature swagger or the way Cyrus confidently took on the rock anthem, the performance was a celebration of both artists’ legacies and their ongoing contributions to the music world.