Miley Cyrus Reflects On Her Youth In New Song “Used To Be Young,” Shares Tearful Music Video

With the fall on the horizon, “Used To Be Young” signals a shift from Cyrus’ latest album, Endless Summer Vacation, which she released earlier this year.

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Melinda Lorge

Melinda Lorge is a Nashville-based freelance writer who specializes in covering country music. Along with Music Mayhem, her work has appeared in publications, including Rare Country, Rolling Stone Country, Nashville Lifestyles Magazine, Wide Open Country and more. After joining Rare Country in early 2016, Lorge was presented with the opportunity to lead coverage on late-night television programs, including “The Voice” and “American Idol,” which helped her to sharpen her writing skills even more. Lorge earned her degree at Middle Tennessee State University, following the completion of five internships within the country music industry. She has an undeniable love for music and entertainment. When she isn’t living and breathing country music, she can be found enjoying time outdoors with family and friends.

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Posted on August 25, 2023

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Miley Cyrus; Photo Courtesy of YouTube

Miley Cyrus taps into her emotions with her nostalgic new song, “Used To Be Young.”

The tune is the latest single from the pop superstar and daughter of country artist Billy Ray Cyrus and has been paired with an intimate music video upon its release today (Friday, Aug. 25).

“Used To Be Young,” written by Miley Cyrus with Michael Pollack and Aldae, is a reflective slow-tempo track that finds the singer/songwriter looking back at her younger years and acknowledging her wild past, which included days of partying, living life in the fast lane, and decisions that can no longer be erased.

Miley Cyrus; Photo Courtesy of YouTube
Miley Cyrus; Photo Courtesy of YouTube

The song also positively points to the future, with Cyrus ready to turn a page to see what comes of her future.

I know I used to be crazy. I know I used to be fun. You say I used to be wild. I say I used to be young,” she sings throughout the chorus of the music video, which pairs nicely with the introspective song lyrics.

Watch Miley Cyrus’ “Used To Be Young” Below

The visual display also makes reference to Cyrus’ childhood days when she was seen as a Disney star. In the clip, the former Hannah Montana actress sports a sparkly spandex top over a Mickey Mouse shirt, as she sheds tears amid an empty black background.

Dedicated “Used To Be Young” To Her Fans

Before releasing the song and music video, Cyrus, now 30, took to her X page, formerly known as Twitter, to reveal she has dedicated “Used To Be Young” to her fans. 

“This song is dedicated to my loyal fans. I love YOU for loving every version of ME,” she captioned while promoting her Endless Summer Vacation (backyard sessions) on ABC.

While Cyrus could’ve dropped her song at any moment, she was particular in picking Aug. 25, saying the exact day was important to her. 

“I decided to release ‘Used To Be Young’ on August 25 because this particular date historically has been important to me personally and in my career,” Miley said while teasing the track via X.  

Indeed. In fact, Aug. 25 was the day Cyrus and ex-husband Liam Hemsworth called it quits ahead of their 2020 divorce. The date is also the same day as her “Wrecking Ball” release in 2013. The video for “Wrecking Ball” was one of the biggest controversies in Cyrus’ history as it featured her swinging back and forth on a wrecking ball without clothes on.

Looking Ahead To The Future Despite Her Wild Past

And while her past has seen plenty of wild days, Cyrus says she’s looking ahead to the future as she evolves her artistry.  

Of the song, she writes on X, “‘It’s optimistic, and there’s a sadness, it’s allowing sadness and joy to be happening simultaneously, which happens all the time. More importantly, this song is about looking toward the future and where I’m going.” 

“I Feel Proud When Reflecting On My Past”

“This song is about honoring who we’ve been, loving who we are [and] celebrating who we will become,” she continues. “I feel proud when reflecting on my past and joyful when thinking about the future [and] I am grateful to my loyal fans who make my dreams a reality daily. I am sincerely thankful for the stability of your steadfast support. This song is for you. Truly, Miley.”

With the fall on the horizon, “Used To Be Young” signals a shift from Cyrus’ latest album, Endless Summer Vacation, which she released earlier this year.

The project includes her No. 1 smash, “Flowers.” “Used To Be Young” is featured as a bonus track on the project.   

“These lyrics were written almost two years ago at the beginning of my ESV. It was at a time when I felt misunderstood. I have spent the last 18 months painting a sonic picture of my perspective to share with you,” Miley Cyrus notes on X. “The time has arrived to release a song I could perfect forever. Although my work is done, this song will continue to write itself every day. The fact it remains unfinished is a part of its beauty. That is my life at this moment….. unfinished yet complete. Sincerely, Miley.”

For more information on Miley Cyrus and her new music, visit her official website HERE.

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Melinda Lorge is a Nashville-based freelance writer who specializes in covering country music. Along with Music Mayhem, her work has appeared in publications, including Rare Country, Rolling Stone Country, Nashville Lifestyles Magazine, Wide Open Country and more. After joining Rare Country in early 2016, Lorge was presented with the opportunity to lead coverage on late-night television programs, including “The Voice” and “American Idol,” which helped her to sharpen her writing skills even more. Lorge earned her degree at Middle Tennessee State University, following the completion of five internships within the country music industry. She has an undeniable love for music and entertainment. When she isn’t living and breathing country music, she can be found enjoying time outdoors with family and friends.

See more posts from Melinda Lorge

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