Miley Cyrus Gives George Clooney a Touching Country Performance Tribute
Although Miley Cyrus is primarily known as a pop star with chart-toppers like ‘Flowers’ and ‘Wrecking Ball’, her music also displays notable country influences, likely inspired by her father, the country musician Billy Ray Cyrus. This blend of genres may have played a role in Cyrus delivering a remarkable version of the country/bluegrass track ‘Man of Constant Sorrow’ at the American Institute in 2018, with the accompanying video later amassing over 8 million views online.
Cyrus took the stage as part of a tribute event honoring actor George Clooney following his receipt of the AFI lifetime achievement award. The song she performed was originally performed by Clooney’s character in the 2000 film ‘Oh Brother, Where Art Thou?’, in a scene that has become iconic in modern cinema. Cyrus undoubtedly paid homage to the scene, with her rich, country-influenced vocals breathing new life and vigor into the song.
The audience that evening in 2018 clearly enjoyed the performance, with the live crowd applauding and cheering as Cyrus finished her act, and Clooney clapping enthusiastically with a broad smile as the singer greeted him. As expected, the performance has attracted nearly 4,000 online comments, with many viewers praising Cyrus’s versatility as a singer. “She can really do it all,” one impressed viewer commented, “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 energized Dolly Parton’s ‘Jolene’. Dressed in leather pants, a white crop top, high-heeled boots, and layers of gold jewelry, Cyrus showcased feminine strength as she confidently moved across the stage, adding her own pop-inspired flair to a song widely considered a country music staple.
Looking at both of these performances makes it evident that Cyrus has earned her global fame for good reason. Brimming with vocal talent and stage presence, she skillfully manages any type of performance expected of her, whether it’s a heartfelt tribute to “America’s leading man” George Clooney or a effortlessly cool Glastonbury set that exudes energy and strength.