Miley Cyrus returns to the stage in LA


Miley Cyrus on Oct. 16, 2026, at Los Angeles’ Hollywood Bowl (photo: Kevin Mazur / Getty Images for Live Nation).

Miley Cyrus made a spectacular comeback to the stage this past weekend, returning to the Hollywood Bowl after a twelve-year hiatus to celebrate her latest release, Bass Persuades. The energy was electric, bringing together a powerful set of performances that not only promoted new music but also explored the evolution of a musical icon.

The weekend shows featured an 18-song setlist that successfully blended new material with beloved classics and celebrated collaborations. The performances were packed with surprises, including guest appearances from The Flaming Lips’ Wayne Coyne, who joined Cyrus in delivering iconic tracks like “Do You Realize ??” and “Karen Don’t Be So Sad” from the 2015 album Miley Cyrus & Her Dead Petz.

The debut performance was a showcase of new territory, with six songs from Bass Persuades hitting the stage, including “Different Religion” and “Let’s Get Married.” The show also offered a deeply personal touch, as Cyrus paid tribute to her late godmother Dolly Parton by performing “Jolene.” During the performance, she shared a poignant reflection on the enduring bond with Dolly, stating, “Me and Dolly, we are eternal. Nothing in this life could ever tear us apart. And I’m going to see her again, and I can’t fucking wait because I miss her.”

While the concert was filled with dazzling moments, the conversation shifted to the performance itself. Cyrus addressed the online reaction, including criticism that she did not sing every lyric from the title track of Bass Persuades live. She handled the scrutiny with a wry sense of humor, noting that while some sought commentary for “clickbait,” she simply didn’t care about it.

When pressed on the nature of artistic evolution, Cyrus admitted that stepping back into the spotlight felt different now. She reflected that it is challenging to perform live in the way it once did, acknowledging that personal growth dictates what feels natural. She explained that the live experience is crucial, serving as a space to test boundaries and discover her true artistic limits.

“I can take a lot, but one thing I will not stand is any question about where my heart is when I’m on the stage. Not one. I am fully present,” she declared, emphasizing that being fully present is the only way she gets to test her personal limits.

She humorously acknowledged the performance hiccups, sarcastically admitting, “oh, I forgot. I’m supposed to sing every fucking word,” referring to the title track of Bass Persuades. Ultimately, the return to the stage was a powerful reminder that growth and authenticity are the most compelling performances of all.

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