Monday, November 9, 2009

Wendy Shalit's Op-ed "Why Miley Cyrus is stripping down as she grows up"

Wendy Shalit's article, "Why Miley Cyrus is stripping down as she grows up," questions Miley's most recent wardrobe choices--with good reason.


"Party in the USA" is aggravating. Yes, "The Climb" music video is cheesy, but the emotional power Miley brings to the song, as well as the encouraging lyrics show true artistry. Miley's voice has variation and a jazzy soulfulness that many singers lack. "The Climb" proved that Miley has the makings of an artist.

But the ultimate climb Miley's after might not be so great after all. Miley's biggest ambition in "Party in the USA" is to make in L.A, which apparently requires her to put her self (cleavage, thighs, and all) out there. She seems okay with this--it means she's grown up. It doesn't offer young girls much to aspire to. Every girl wants attention, to be beautiful, but how many really want beer-bellied couch potatoes drooling over them 2000 miles away? Can a young girl make a contribution to culture without becoming a lust object?

An artist's task is to compose something meaningful and original that highlights the beauty or tragedy of humanity. This new image of Miley doesn't ring true. She has a strong voice and her creativity will allow her to compose songs that matter. She's far more than just a sexy dancer.

A merely "hot" girl is way less powerful than a strong, creative girl. Hollywood and the music industry's demand that women put their sexy selves out there for all to see before they "make it," sacrifices the artists in pursuit of the so-called art.

1 comment:

Wheeler Reviews said...

Remember when she posed "naked" for those pictures that ended up all over the news? This is also the girl who wants to create a "Sex and the City" for teenagers.