Music analysis: Why Miley Cyrus dropped her surname before her new album
Miley Cyrus has stepped into a new era, this time going simply by “Miley,” writes Music News Blitz’s Likhanye Lolo.
The star has not explained the change herself, although its timing has prompted speculation.
In late August, Miley removed “Cyrus” from her Instagram, website and branding, appearing simply as “Miley” across her platforms.
The shift gained attention on August 31, one day before she announced her 10th studio album, “Bass Persuades,” on September 1.
She has not publicly addressed why she made the change, leaving fans and media outlets to speculate.
Her father weighs in
Miley’s father, country star Billy Ray Cyrus, was among the first to comment publicly. He said he supported the decision, describing it as a natural progression for an artist at her level.
“I told Miley yesterday I felt good about her going with her first name,” he wrote. “I mentioned Dolly and Cher. Thinkin’ about it more and more... Elvis, Prince, and so on. It’s a natural progression for an iconic superstar legend.”
His comments came amid speculation that the change reflected tension between the pair, following past reports of a falling out.
Billy Ray also said Miley had told him about the decision in advance.
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A tribute to Dolly Parton
The rebrand also came shortly after the death of Miley’s godmother, country icon Dolly Parton, who was herself long known by a single name.
Paying tribute to Parton shortly beforehand, Miley wrote that one of their final conversations was about “music and metamorphosis,” although she did not directly link that conversation to her decision to use her first name professionally.
Part of a bigger moment
Whatever the reason, the change comes at a significant moment in Miley’s career.
“Bass Persuades” arrives on September 18 via Atlantic Records and follows her 2025 album, “Something Beautiful.” Miley will also perform two shows at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles on October 16 and 18.
For now, whether “Miley” is a permanent shift or simply an era specific rebrand remains unclear.
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