Miley Cyrus Pays Tribute to Sinéad O'Connor with Song and Opens Up About Father Billy Ray Cyrus in Emotional Performance on ABC Special

 Miley Cyrus' Emotional Tribute: Honoring Sinéad O'Connor and Reflecting on Billy Ray Cyrus in ABC Special

In a heartfelt display, Miley Cyrus dedicated a poignant song to the late Sinéad O'Connor and was visibly moved while discussing her renowned father, Billy Ray Cyrus, during a recent ABC special aired on Thursday.

The 30-year-old artist took center stage in the one-hour broadcast titled "Endless Summer Vacation: Continued (Backyard Sessions)," designed to promote her fresh single, "Used To Be Young," which was released following the special.

Candidly, Miley stated, "Throughout my relatively short life and extensive career, I've expressed myself through various unique avenues. Yet, the one constant has been genuine storytelling. I'm profoundly thankful for anyone who takes the time to listen to my new song."

She then delved into her life's narrative, commencing at its inception, when she was welcomed into the world by her mother, Tish Cyrus, 56, and her father, Billy Ray Cyrus, 62. Fondly reminiscing, she remarked, "We're revisiting the top 100 country songs of 1992. When I was born, my dad held the number one spot on the country charts," alluding to his hit track, "Achy Breaky Heart."

New single: Miley Cyrus dedicated a song to the late Sinéad O'Connor and got emotional while talking about her famous father Billy Ray Cyrus during a special that aired on Thursday on ABC

"While numbers might represent listeners to some, I see the individuals behind those numbers enjoying the music; I see people, not just figures. Numbers can't alter my identity," she added thoughtfully.

Miley proceeded to explore the contrasts between her and Billy Ray, sharing, "My father's upbringing was a stark contrast to mine. I grew up on sound stages, within a closely-knit family under one roof. Financial and emotional stability characterized my upbringing, both in my personal relationships and finances. This contrasted sharply with my father's experiences. I've witnessed how this transition from nothing to fame affects many. It's a perilous path."

Elaborating on the divergence between her and her father's relationship with fame, she explained, "My father's emotional connection to a broad audience affected him more deeply than it ever could me. When he's acknowledged or valued, it's like healing a childhood wound. In my case, I've always been treated as a star."

Tears welled up as Miley disclosed, "It stirs emotions within me. That's the distinction. It caught me," her voice quivering as she discussed Billy Ray.

She proceeded to cherish memories of singing alongside her father and learning the nuances of his vocal artistry. "I must say, vocally, my father's talents were underappreciated," she reflected.

Late singer: Sinéad O'Connor, shown in August 2014 in the UK, posted an open letter to Miley in 2013 after the release of her controversial Wrecking Ball music video

Fond memories: Miley added that she had great memories of singing with her father and learning how he used his voice

 

Transitioning to her journey, including the casting process for "Hannah Montana," Miley continued to the subsequent phase spanning from 2013 to the present day.

Reflecting on her trajectory, she shared, "Much has transpired. 'Wrecking Ball,' for instance—I had the demo already and had presented it to several producers who failed to recognize its potential, deeming it unsuitable for 'Bangerz.' So I contacted the 'Party In The USA' creator and said, 'Let's give it another shot.'"

Recalling the aftermath of "Wrecking Ball," Miley revealed, "I was prepared for controversy and backlash, but I didn't anticipate being criticized or attacked by other women, particularly those who had been in my shoes before."

During this time, she received an open letter from Sinéad O'Connor, which had a profound impact on her. "Back then, I wasn't fully aware of her fragile mental state. I was just 20 years old, and comprehending mental illness was limited for me. All I perceived was that another woman claimed this concept was not mine. Even if I believed it was, it was essentially the powerful men's conception of me. They manipulated me into thinking it was my own when it never truly was. Yet, it was mine and still is. I remain fond of it."

She acknowledged that "triggers and traumas from early childhood" resurface in unexpected ways. "After being constantly judged for my choices, I was drained. I had finally gained agency over my decisions, and having that stripped away greatly upset me."

Miley offered sincere praise, saying, "Truly, hats off to Sinéad O'Connor. Bless her heart."

The scene transitioned as Miley, dressed elegantly in black, approached the microphone stand. The screen displayed the words "Dedicated to Sinéad O'Connor.

Wore black: Miley performed the song Wonder Woman from her new album Endless Summer Vacation in honor of Sinéad who died on July 26 in London at age 56

New single: The one-hour special promoted the release of Miley's new single Used To Be Young that became available after the special aired

 

 In homage to Sinéad, who passed away at 56 on July 26, Miley performed the song "Wonder Woman" from her recent album, "Endless Summer Vacation."

The history between Miley and Sinéad originated when Miley cited Sinéad's "Nothing Compares 2 U" music video as an inspiration for her explicit "Wrecking Ball" video, prompting a strongly worded open letter from Sinéad criticizing Miley's choices.

Miley responded by sharing Sinéad's past struggles with mental health and clashed with her, a dispute that eventually mellowed over time. On "The Today Show" in 2013, Miley expressed her admiration for Sinéad's artistic talents, even though the conflict had arisen from a place of respect.

Miley's eighth studio album, "Endless Summer Vacation," was released through Columbia Records in March. The lead single, "Flowers," dominated the US Billboard Hot 100 chart for eight consecutive weeks following its January release.