This second part of my tribute to O.G. Miley songs was much harder to put together than part 1, which comprised the Hannah Montana era. I could almost just put ten songs from the excellent Can't be Tamed album! However, here's a more variety-based approach:
10. Can't be Tamed
Remember when this video came out with Miley dancing in a cage in a "scandalous" little feathered outfit? Shocking! Erm, not so much, compared with the 2013 VMA's. But real talk? As much as I love "We Can't Stop," I actually prefer "Can't be Tamed," a feisty, take-no-prisoners storm of a pop song. Truthfully, I think "Can't be Tamed" is everything Britney was trying to do with "I'm a Slave 4 U" but didn't really accomplish until "Overprotected." Slight tangent there, but you know what I mean.And...this song could also have been titled "Fair Warning." Ha!
9. See You Again
Gotta love the self-name-checkin' big wad of yummy bubblegum goodness that is this song.8. Liberty Walk
Another "I'm free, I'm free!" post-Hannah classic from Can't be Tamed. I adore the boldness of the spoken word segueing brilliantly into a mega-catchy sung chorus. An encouraging ode to self esteem that's actually a sort of sequel to the sentiments expressed in "Make Some Noise."7. Two More Lonely People
This beautiful mid tempo number was one of the more contemplative moments on the CBT album. A lovely vocal, and those big guitar hooks are amazing, too.6. Bottom of the Ocean
A heartbreakingly perfect crystallization of post break-up angst. You can visualize the emotions dropping like a stone to the bottom of the metaphorical ocean...sigh.5. The Driveway
A no-holds-barred emotional freefall that really demonstrates Miley's strength as a solo artist so early in her career. The opening notes seem to abruptly hurtle right into a moment of crisis with no warning - excellent production. I also like the lyric "let the credits start to roll" as a neat little callback to "If We Were a Movie."
4. Goodbye
Awwwwwww. Heart-melting, syrupy, puppy dog love gorgeousness.3. My Heart Beats for Love
A battle anthem filled with wisdom and nobility.2. Party in the USA
This peppy ode to escaping into pop music to get out of awkward moments was a perfect touchtone of self-affirmation. No wonder it was one of Miley's breakout moments as a mainstream artist.1. 7 Things
If you take all the angst and disappointment of a soon-to-happen breakup and pierce them through with the light of surprising hope, this is what you get.What are your favorite pre-Bangerz Miley solo songs and why? Share your thoughts in the comments!
