Miley Cyrus, Midnight Sky | Track Review 🎵

After generating little buzz musically in the back half of the 2010s, Miley Cyrus comes out strong in 2020 with single “Midnight Sky.”

“The midnight sky is the road I’m takin’ / Head high up in the clouds (Oh, oh).” After a tepid back half of the 2010s at best, Miley Cyrus comes back incredibly strong with “Midnight Sky.” “Midnight Sky” serves as the promo single for Cyrus’ upcoming album, SHE IS MILEY CYRUS.  Honestly, this is exactly what Miley needed particularly following the cool reception of Younger Now (2017), a big-time about face that was unsuccessful from a commercial standpoint (still a respectable album by my estimations).

“Midnight Sky” is produced by some of the best in the game: Andrew Watt (watt) and Louis Bell.  In addition to songwriting by Cyrus, watt, and Bell, Ali Tamposi, Ilsey Juber, and Jon Bellion contribute to the musical excellence.  Notably, “Midnight Sky” samples “Edge of Seventeen” by Stevie Nicks, nothing short of an awesome choice.  Obviously, the sample alone suggests this marks another about face for Miley.  If her BANGERZ phase was wild and urban-centric, and her Younger Now phase was too tame (indie, country-tinged pop), the ‘disco-pop’ of “Midnight Sky” feels like a pretty sweet fit.

Most importantly, “Midnight Sky” features aggressive, assertive vocals from Miley Cyrus.  Her instrument has always been her best weapon; she has a distinct, cutting, powerful voice, period. She uses her vocals to command this fresh, yet retro dance/disco pop number.  Well written, it features a straightforward, easy navigable form.  Both the pre-chorus (aforementioned) and chorus are particularly strong.  Cyrus delivers her most passionate vocals on the chorus:

“I was born to run, I don’t belong to anyone, oh no
I don’t need to be loved by you (By you)
Fire in my lungs, can’t bite the devil on my tongue, oh no
I don’t need to be loved by you.”

Final Thoughts 

So many Miley Cyrus singles of late have left me desiring more.  “Midnight Sky” finally finds this talented musician showing her superstar power.  All boxes are checked off on “Midnight Sky,” which is far better than any of the songs that graced Younger Now.  Hopefully, SHE IS MILEY CYRUS is a superb comeback album for one of pop’s gifted performers.

Miley Cyrus • “Midnight Sky” • RCA • Release: 8.14.20

Photo Credit: RCA