Miley Cyrus Pays Tribute to George Clooney with a Stirring Country Act
Although Miley Cyrus is primarily known as a pop artist with chart-topping hits like ‘Flowers’ and ‘Wrecking Ball’, her music also incorporates notable country influences, likely inspired by her father, country star Billy Ray Cyrus. This blend may have played a role in Cyrus delivering a remarkable rendition of the country/bluegrass track ‘Man of Constant Sorrow’ at the American Institute in 2018, with the accompanying video later attracting over 8 million online views.
Cyrus took the stage as part of a tribute show honoring actor George Clooney after he was awarded 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 certainly paid homage to the scene, with her rich, country-infused vocals bringing new strength and vitality to 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 while the singer greeted him. As expected, the performance has amassed nearly 4,000 online comments, with many viewers praising Cyrus’s versatility as a vocalist. “She can really do it all,” comments one impressed viewer, “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 delivered Dolly Parton’s ‘Jolene’ with vigor. Dressed in leather pants, a white crop top, high-heeled boots, and layers of gold jewelry, Cyrus exemplifies feminine strength as she confidently moves across the stage, infusing her own pop-inspired flair into a song widely celebrated as a country music staple.
Watching both of these performances highlights that Cyrus has achieved global fame for a 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.