Miley Cyrus's evolution as an artist continues to captivate audiences, and her latest project promises to be no exception. As Cyrus prepares for the release of her ninth studio album, Something Beautiful, she is not simply delivering new music but also a full-fledged cinematic experience. Scheduled to hit both the charts and the silver screen in the summer of 2025, this venture raises myriad questions about the future of music consumption—a space in which visual storytelling is increasingly merging with auditory experiences.
Cyrus has stated that this upcoming album is not only a musical endeavor but also her attempt to weave a narrative that reflects her worldviews, reminiscent of classic rock epics like Pink Floyd's The Wall. This article explores Cyrus's new album, its cinematic approach, and what it represents for her as an artist and the broader music industry.
Cyrus has described Something Beautiful as a concept album that seeks to medicate the current cultural malaise through its rich visual and auditory storytelling. In her own words: "It’s a concept album that’s an attempt to medicate somewhat of a sick culture through music." This ambitious goal sets a high bar not only for her artistry but also for how audiences engage with the material.
To produce this ambitious project, Cyrus teamed up with Shawn Everett, known for his work with artists such as Kacey Musgraves and Alabama Shakes, serving as executive producer. The collaborative nature of the album hints at a mature phase in Cyrus's career, wherein she is keen to learn from her contemporaries while also sharing her unique vision.
The visual component of Something Beautiful will be a film directed by Cyrus herself, alongside Jacob Bixenman and Brendan Walter. The trailer released recently hints at a vibrant exploration of L.A.'s cultural landscape, featuring Cyrus in outfits designed by renowned designers like Thierry Mugler, Jean Paul Gaultier, and Alexander McQueen. The trailer emphasizes a range of aesthetics that reflect both nostalgia and modernity in a seamless blend typical of Cyrus's style.
According to the trailer's narration, this project is being positioned as a “one of a kind pop opera,” suggesting that viewers can expect a narrative steeped not just in visual stimulation but in thematic depth as well.
Cyrus’s confession that the album draws influence from Pink Floyd’s The Wall reveals much about her artistic aspirations. As she described it, "We really leaned in. ... My idea was making The Wall, but with a better wardrobe and more glamorous and filled with pop culture." This emphasis on creating a visually rich narrative suggests a detailed planning process, invoking not just music but a full-fledged artistic experience.
Cyrus's approach reflects a wider trend in the music industry where artists are increasingly blending genres and media to create multi-dimensional experiences. According to recent industry reports, visual albums are becoming a staple, particularly in the pop genre, as artists seek to engage audiences more deeply than traditional music formats allow.
Visual albums enable an artist to craft an audiovisual story that enhances the music's emotional impact. This strategy not only captivates existing fans but also draws new listeners who may be more inclined to engage with video content.
Cyrus is not alone in this endeavor. Other artists have successfully released visual projects that redefine the concept of an album, such as Beyoncé's Lemonade and Frank Ocean's Blonde. Both projects combined music with powerful visuals, creating an immersive experience that fostered deeper emotional connections with their audiences.
With the rise of platforms like YouTube and TikTok, artists are finding new ways to capture attention through engaging visuals. The successful integration of both music and visual storytelling is likely to set new precedents for how future artists conceptualize albums.
For Miley Cyrus, Something Beautiful is more than just an album; it represents her evolution as an artist moving deeper into her creative skin. Following her previous work, Endless Summer Vacation, her current project is a significant step toward personal introspection and growth. This narrative journey mirrors her own life—full of trials, tribulations, and triumphant moments.
In interviews, Cyrus has expressed a desire to navigate cultural complexities through her art. The emotional weight of her lyrics, combined with high-fashion visuals, speaks to her genuine intention to reflect on the "sick culture" that she feels pervades society.
As a public figure, Cyrus wields significant influence, particularly among younger audiences. Through Something Beautiful, she aims to foster connections that resonate amidst a landscape often criticized for superficiality. By intertwining visual storytelling with poignant messages, she establishes herself as not just an entertainer but a cultural commentator.
The album's themes may resonate deeply with audiences navigating contemporary societal erosion, exploring ideas around identity, personal empowerment, and social critique.
Cyrus’s approach indicates a broader trend that may redefine expectations for artists in the pop genre. As the integration of visual storytelling becomes more commonplace, it will likely set the stage for a paradigm shift where artists are expected to produce multifaceted projects that tell cohesive stories across various media.
As anticipation builds for Something Beautiful and its accompanying visual experience, the potential for critical and commercial success looms large. Given Cyrus's established fan base and the creative talent involved in the project, both the music and film are likely to generate significant buzz—setting a new standard for experiential artistry in modern pop culture.
The album is scheduled to be released on May 30, 2025.
Yes, a visual film version of Something Beautiful is planned for release in June 2025.
Cyrus has partnered with Shawn Everett as the executive producer, along with directors Jacob Bixenman and Brendan Walter for the visual component.
Cyrus has mentioned drawing inspiration from Pink Floyd’s The Wall and aims to blend deep themes with high fashion and pop culture elements.
Something Beautiful marks a significant evolution in Cyrus's artistry, showcasing her growth as a creative force in music and visual storytelling.
The integration of visual storytelling in music indicates a shift toward more immersive artistic experiences that engage audiences on multiple levels, likely prompting other artists to explore similar formats.
In an industry constantly evolving, Miley Cyrus’s Something Beautiful acts as not just a momentary artistic endeavor but a landmark for what the future of music could hold. Combining storytelling, fashion, and sound, this project may well set a new direction for pop artistry, inviting listeners and viewers alike into an experience that transcends traditional album releases.