Miley Cyrus’s ‘Something Beautiful’: A Psychedelic Rebirth or a Pop Mirage?

Miley Cyrus has always been a chameleon, but with Something Beautiful, she sheds her skin entirely. Released on May 30, 2025, this ninth studio album is more than a collection of songs; it’s a visual and sonic odyssey that challenges the very fabric of pop music. Drawing inspiration from Pink Floyd’s The Wall and the cult film Mandy, Cyrus aims to create a “pop opera” that transcends traditional music boundaries.

The album opens with “Prelude,” an orchestral piece that segues into the title track, “Something Beautiful.” These songs set the tone for an album that defies genre, blending elements of rock, soul, and electronic music. Collaborations with artists like Brittany Howard and Naomi Campbell add depth, yet it’s Cyrus’s own voice that remains the focal point.

However, not all experiments succeed. Tracks like “Every Girl You’ve Ever Loved” featuring Naomi Campbell have been criticized for lacking originality. Despite this, the album’s visual component, co-directed by Cyrus, Jacob Bixenman, and Brendan Walter, offers a cinematic experience that complements the music. Shot in archival Thierry Mugler couture, the visuals are as avant-garde as the sound.

But the question remains: is this artistic reinvention a genuine evolution or a strategic move to reclaim relevance? Cyrus herself has described the project as an attempt to “medicate somewhat of a sick culture through music,” positioning herself as a “human psychedelic” aiming to elevate listeners to new emotional heights.

As the visual album prepares for its theatrical release in June, fans and critics alike will be watching closely. Will Something Beautiful redefine Miley Cyrus’s legacy, or will it be remembered as a fleeting moment in pop history? Only time will tell.