Miley Cyrus Channels the Spirit of Led Zeppelin at Glastonbury, Delivering a Dynamic Rendition of “Black Dog”

Miley Cyrus’s performance of “Black Dog” at Glastonbury 2019 was a milestone in her career, highlighting her ability to reinterpret classic rock for a modern audience. On the iconic Pyramid Stage, Cyrus boldly covered Led Zeppelin, adding her distinctive vocal style to their gritty sound, which underscored her vocal versatility and respect for rock history.

Though Cyrus had explored classic rock before, this performance made a significant mark on her musical journey. Initially known for pop and country roots, she evolved her sound over the years, blending rock, hip-hop, and alternative pop. Her cover of “Black Dog,” with its demanding vocals and raw energy, affirmed her desire to step beyond pop norms and connect with a broader musical landscape.

Her set also included Metallica’s “Nothing Else Matters,” embracing heavy rock and showcasing her range and homage to different rock eras. This performance echoed the legacy of other legends who played at Glastonbury, with Cyrus adding her unique touch while honoring the originals.

Cyrus’s delivery of “Black Dog” paid tribute to Led Zeppelin’s power, tackling the challenges of the song’s complex rhythm and bluesy undertones head-on. The audience reacted with enthusiasm, pleasantly surprised by her take on such a classic.

This Glastonbury appearance was more than a collection of covers; it was Cyrus reclaiming her musical path. The rock influence aligned with her bold, genre-defying image, marking a significant shift in her artistic identity. Her journey from Disney star to a performer embracing rock culture resonated with diverse listeners, bridging classic rock fans with new audiences.

Cyrus’s career has been defined by reinvention, from her rise on Hannah Montana to a solo path traversing pop, country, and hip-hop. Albums like Bangerz and Younger Now reflect her experimentation and personal growth. By Glastonbury, she was known for dynamic performances, making her “Black Dog” cover both fitting and surprising.

Her connection to rock’s storytelling tradition, particularly in “Black Dog,” drew from the bluesy roots she embraced. With a raspy, soulful voice, Cyrus captured the raw intensity of the song, engaging the crowd with her powerful delivery.

Cyrus’s Glastonbury set was a prime example of how she uses live shows to push musical boundaries, covering rock bands to honor the genre’s roots and reinterpret it for today’s audience. Her performance set the stage for her later rock-influenced work, signaling a shift from pop star to a multifaceted artist deeply rooted in rock’s cultural impact.

The tribute to Led Zeppelin, along with her broader rock setlist, conveyed a clear message: Miley Cyrus is fearless in exploring genres and honoring music’s trailblazers. Her ability to embody the spirit of rock while bringing her own style marked this Glastonbury show as a pivotal moment in her evolution as a dynamic, ever-changing artist.