Gen Zers grew up with Miley Cyrus, more so than any other celebrity out there. We watched her on Disney as kids, embraced her unique and fun personality through the (iconic) Bangerz era, and loved every second of her evolution. So, after the release of her new song “We Used To Be Young,” fans have been theorizing that Miley Cyrus is retiring from music, and it’s bittersweet. Someone play the sad Hannah Montana transition music.
Miley Cyrus retiring isn’t a new theory, and it’s only gaining popularity as the star gets older and explores other avenues of creativity. On Aug. 25, Cyrus dropped a new song called “We Used To Be Young” (which came out the same day as Selena Gomez’s new song), a slow ballad full of meaningful lyrics. The more I listen to it, the more it reminds me of a grown-up version of “You’ll Always Find Your Way Back Home.” Anyone else tearing up? Just me?
Additionally, Cyrus posted a teaser for the song on Instagram on Aug. 23, writing, “These lyrics were written almost 2 years ago at the beginning of my ESV. It was at a time I felt misunderstood. I have spent the last 18 months painting a sonic picture of my perspective to share with you. The time has arrived to release a song that I could perfect forever. Although my work is done, this song will continue to write itself everyday. The fact it remains unfinished is a part of its beauty. That is my life at this moment ….. unfinished yet complete.”
While this can just be another emotional song by Cyrus (think “The Climb”), “We Used To Be Young” has lyrics that fans believe could be interpreted as a “goodbye” from the child star turned pop idol. In the chorus, Cyrus sings about her wild days, finishing with the lyrics “You tell me time has done changed me / That’s fine, I’ve had a good run \ I know I used to be crazy / That’s ‘causе I used to be young.” Say what you want, but I think Cyrus is trying to tell us something here.
Naturally, fans are flocking to the comment sections, to share their emotional response to the single, and their thoughts regarding Cyrus’ rumored retirement. One fan commented, “if you retire after this one I swear to god” with another writing, “DON’T YOU DARE TO RETIRE AFTER THIS SINGLE 😡.” My sentiments exactly, y’all.
While Cyrus has yet to confirm or deny her retirement, I’m sure we’re all in agreement that we’ll support the queen’s decision no matter what she does. Until then, catch me blasting this song and reminiscing on my days as a college frat rat.