Miley Cyrus Reveals Disney's Restrictions on 'Hannah Montana' Music: 'They Didn't Let Me'
Miley Cyrus, the iconic star who rose to fame as Hannah Montana, is sharing a surprising revelation about her post-show music career. In a candid conversation on The Ringer podcast, the 32-year-old singer and actress detailed how Disney allegedly prevented her from performing songs from the beloved Hannah Montana series after its conclusion. This restriction, she claims, wasn't a choice she made, but rather a consequence of contractual and corporate decisions.
“It’s very frustrating for me,” Cyrus explained. “I’m not like, ‘Oh, I want to go back and sing ‘Hannah Montana’ songs.’ But I also didn’t get to, like, have the choice.” She emphasized that she felt blocked from revisiting the music that defined a significant portion of her career and resonated deeply with millions of fans worldwide.
The conversation sparked significant discussion among fans and industry observers. Many expressed disappointment and confusion, wondering why Cyrus wouldn't have the freedom to perform songs she herself recorded and helped popularize. Others speculated about the complexities of copyright and licensing agreements, and the potential for Disney to retain control over the Hannah Montana catalog.
Cyrus's journey since Hannah Montana has been marked by a deliberate reinvention and exploration of diverse musical styles. She’s shed the pop star image, embracing a bolder, more experimental sound and persona. While she’s achieved considerable success as a solo artist, the lingering restrictions on her Hannah Montana repertoire have apparently been a source of ongoing frustration.
“I think that’s why I’m so protective of my voice,” Cyrus added, hinting at a desire to maintain creative control over her artistic output. “I’m not like, ‘Oh, I want to go back and sing ‘Hannah Montana’ songs.’ But I also didn’t get to, like, have the choice.” This sentiment highlights the challenges faced by young artists navigating the complexities of the entertainment industry and the importance of retaining ownership and agency over their work.
The incident raises questions about the power dynamics between artists and the corporations that launch them, and the extent to which performers should have the right to reclaim and reinterpret their own legacies. While Cyrus has moved on to forge a successful career beyond Hannah Montana, the story serves as a reminder of the constraints that can sometimes exist within the entertainment world and the enduring impact of a beloved childhood franchise.
As Cyrus continues to evolve as an artist, fans remain eager to see what she does next—and perhaps, one day, to hear her perform those cherished Hannah Montana tunes with the freedom she deserves.