Dolly Parton Shades Miley Cyrus’ “Used to Be Young”
Miley Cyrus recently revealed that her godmother, Dolly Parton, had a playful critique of her 2023 single, “Used to Be Young.” Parton, known for her timeless classics, expressed surprise that Cyrus, still young and vibrant, would choose to sing about the past.
In her Harper’s Bazaar interview, Cyrus recounted Parton’s reaction: “She goes, ‘I don’t know if I like that new “Used to Be Young” song because it’s not fair that you’re singing about not being young when you’re young and beautiful.’ She said, ‘And here I am — I’m like 80 — and I’m like, That should have been my song!’”
A Bittersweet Reflection
“Used to Be Young” was a poignant reflection on Cyrus’ journey from child star to mature artist. While the song resonated with many fans, Cyrus herself admitted that she may have approached it differently today: “I actually listened to that song yesterday, and I was asking myself, ‘Did I really need to put this out?’ It was one of those things that maybe now that I’m a bit more private, I would’ve kept private, but I’m happy to have shared it.”
Supporting a Rising Star
Beyond her own music, Cyrus has been a vocal supporter of younger artists. She recently expressed admiration for Chappell Roan, who has been open about setting boundaries with fans. Cyrus emphasized the challenges faced by artists in the age of social media, acknowledging that she herself has chosen to distance herself from platforms like Instagram.
Roan, a longtime fan of Cyrus, has been inspired by her mentor’s ability to reinvent herself and stay true to her artistic vision. She credits Cyrus for her authenticity and willingness to share her personal journey with fans.
A Generational Divide in Music
The contrasting perspectives of Parton and Cyrus highlight the generational divide in the music industry. While Parton’s career spans decades, Cyrus is a representative of a new generation of artists who are unafraid to experiment and push boundaries. Despite their differences, the two share a deep bond and mutual respect.
