Miley Cyrus’s Bold and Versatile Take on ‘My Way’ Leaves a Lasting Impression
Miley Cyrus’s cover of Frank Sinatra’s “My Way” at the 2016 Mark Twain Prize ceremony honoring comedian Bill Murray was a striking blend of tradition and modernity. When she stepped onto the stage, backed by a grand piano, Miley began the song in a style faithful to Sinatra’s original, showcasing her vocal prowess and paying homage to the classic ballad’s elegance. Her opening performance, which retained the song’s waltz-like pace and emotional depth, was met with admiration from Bill Murray, who gave her a standing ovation even before she started singing. The atmosphere was charged with respect and nostalgia, as the audience witnessed a young pop star tackle one of the most iconic songs in American music.
As the song unfolded, Miley introduced her own touch, and the lyrics shifted to “Bill did it his way,” directly addressing the honoree of the night, Bill Murray. This personalization of the lyrics showed a playful side, yet it maintained the depth and meaning of the original. The song then transformed midway through, with Miley declaring “So am I!” to mark a shift from the traditional ballad style to a more modern rock vibe. The grand piano accompaniment was soon joined by a burst of electric guitars, and her pianist danced joyously, adding synths to the new arrangement. This unexpected transition surprised the audience, turning the elegant ballad into an upbeat, rock-infused rendition, reflecting Miley’s fearlessness in taking creative risks.
Dressed in a dazzling silver glitter bodycon dress, Miley’s performance exuded confidence and a strong rock aesthetic, staying true to her evolving artistic persona. This gritty version of “My Way” defied expectations for those unfamiliar with her rock influences and demonstrated her ability to cross genres with ease. Miley’s rock covers, such as Blondie’s “Heart of Glass” and Metallica’s “Nothing Else Matters,” had already proven her talent for reinterpreting classic tracks, and her cover of “My Way” was no exception. It is now considered one of her standout performances, further exemplifying her versatility and capability to make each song uniquely her own.
The song “My Way,” famously popularized by Frank Sinatra in 1969, carries themes of pride, self-reflection, and the satisfaction of living life on one’s own terms. Originally adapted from the French song “Comme d’habitude,” the English lyrics were penned by Paul Anka. The song has since become synonymous with Sinatra’s legacy, with his version defining the crooner’s ability to convey emotion and storytelling. Miley’s performance, while honoring Sinatra’s signature style, transformed the song into something contemporary, allowing her to showcase both her vocal range and her bold reinterpretation skills.
The performance was part of a broader tribute to Bill Murray, known for his unique comedic style and contributions to American film and television. Murray’s emotional response to Miley’s cover demonstrated the impact of her performance, bringing a mixture of sentimentality and humor to the night’s celebrations. The choice of “My Way” was particularly apt, given its themes of individuality and nonconformity, which align closely with Murray’s own approach to his career in comedy and acting. Miley’s adaptation added layers of playfulness and grit, reflecting both her appreciation for the classic and her own rebellious spirit.
In the broader context of Miley’s career, this cover of “My Way” exemplified her journey of artistic reinvention. From her early days as Hannah Montana to her “Bangerz” era and beyond, Miley has consistently sought to redefine her image and sound, moving away from her Disney roots and embracing more mature, complex musical projects. Her interpretation of “My Way” represented a celebration of freedom and self-expression, underscoring her commitment to exploring various musical styles, whether it be pop, rock, or country.
The performance also drew attention to Miley’s ability to engage with and rework iconic songs while still maintaining their essence. By opting for an arena-rock approach, she demonstrated her versatility and capability to resonate with audiences across different musical genres. This reinterpretation of a classic crooner song with a rock twist allowed Miley to break boundaries and challenge expectations, proving that her voice could effectively traverse styles and deliver powerful interpretations.
While “My Way” has been covered by many legendary artists, including Elvis Presley, Sid Vicious of the Sex Pistols, Celine Dion, and Kelly Clarkson, Miley’s version stood out for its bold transformation and lively arrangement. Rather than sticking to the slow, contemplative mood of the original, Miley infused the song with an energy that was fresh and reflective of her own musical influences. This willingness to experiment with such a revered track speaks to her confidence as an artist and her dedication to evolving her sound.
The popularity of Miley’s rock covers further established her as an artist unafraid to delve into different musical territories. Her renditions of classics have garnered millions of views, proving that her style resonates not only with her fan base but also with those who appreciate the legacy of the original songs. Her cover of “My Way” continued this trend, drawing new listeners and enhancing her reputation as a powerful vocalist and creative interpreter of music.
Ultimately, Miley Cyrus’s performance of “My Way” was a celebration of individuality, artistry, and a fearless approach to music. By blending the elegance of Sinatra’s ballad with her own rock-infused edge, Miley successfully honored both the legacy of the song and the night’s honoree, Bill Murray, while asserting her place as an artist who continues to redefine herself and the music she covers. The performance left a lasting impression, highlighting her talent for connecting deeply with a song’s emotion while adding her distinctive touch, making it one of the memorable covers in her musical journey.
