Miley Cyrus Celebrates 23 Platinum Hits with ‘Flowers’ and ‘Used to Be Young’

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights
2. Introduction
3. A Closer Look at ‘Flowers’
4. The Path to 23 Platinum Hits
5. The Grammy Win: Significance and Recognition
6. Future Prospects for Miley Cyrus
7. FAQ

Key Highlights

• Miley Cyrus reaches an impressive milestone of 23 platinum-certified songs as recognized by the RIAA.
• Her singles "Flowers" and "Used to Be Young" are certified at 7x platinum and platinum, respectively.
• "Flowers," from the album Endless Summer Vacation, was a commercial success, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for eight weeks.
• At the 2024 Grammy Awards, "Flowers" won Cyrus her first two Grammy Awards: Best Pop Solo Performance and Record of the Year.

Introduction

In an extraordinary achievement that underscores her evolution as an artist, Miley Cyrus now boasts 23 platinum-certified hits. As of March 27, 2025, the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) announced that her latest hits, "Flowers" and "Used to Be Young," have captured the music world’s attention. The former, a reflective anthem believed to be inspired by her past relationship with Liam Hemsworth, cemented itself in pop culture by not only climbing the charts but also winning multiple prestigious awards.

But what does this milestone mean for Cyrus and the trajectory of her career? As she transitions into her 30s, Cyrus exemplifies growth, resilience, and reinvention—qualities that resonate deeply within her music and public persona. In this article, we will explore the significance of her recent accomplishments, the historical context of her career, and the implications this has for the future of one of pop music's most prominent figures.

A Closer Look at ‘Flowers’

The hit single "Flowers," released in March 2023 as part of her eighth studio album Endless Summer Vacation, quickly became a cultural phenomenon. Debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, the track remained at the top for eight consecutive weeks—a remarkable feat in an era dominated by varied musical styles and fierce competition. The song’s themes of self-love and independence struck a chord with listeners, particularly women grappling with similar emotional narratives.

“Flowers” drew considerable media attention for its lyrical content, which many interpreted as a subtle commentary on her relationship with Hemsworth. Cyrus herself has described the process of creating the song as therapeutic, stating, “I needed to remind myself of my worth and turn the pain into something beautiful.”

This track didn’t just resonate with fans; it garnered accolades at the 2024 Grammy Awards, where Cyrus took home the Grammy for Best Pop Solo Performance and Record of the Year. This marked a significant moment in her career, symbolizing her recognition within the industry after years of hard work, evolution, and occasionally tumultuous public narrative.

The Impact of Streams and Sales

An important aspect of the RIAA's certification process includes acknowledging that one platinum certification signifies one million equivalent song units. This can be derived from a combination of digital sales and streams—150 streams count as equivalent to one song sale. This shift in how music success is quantified reflects the rapid evolution of the music industry, where auditory consumption habits have diversified significantly in the streaming era, reshaping the definition of success.

The Signing Off on ‘Used to Be Young’

While “Flowers” took the charts by storm, Cyrus's introspective track "Used to Be Young," has found its own audience. Unlike its predecessor, this song dives deeper into Cyrus's personal journey, reflecting on her growth and the challenges faced throughout her career. The track resonates with discussions around the pressure of stardom and the journey of self-discovery, making it impactful not just musically, but also socially.

Cyrus appears to have taken lessons from her past, channeling them into her art and ensuring that her narrative remains authentic to her experiences. "Used to Be Young" serves as a poignant reminder that time brings both triumph and challenges, and it highlights her resilience in embracing her evolution.

The Path to 23 Platinum Hits

Reaching a tally of 23 platinum certifications is no small feat. This includes a mixture of fan favorites and chart-toppers from various points in Cyrus's career. Remarkably, she also holds a diamond certification for her 2010 hit "Party in the U.S.A.," which has sold or streamed 10 million units in the U.S. alone.

A Look Back at Her Musical Journey

Miley Cyrus first burst onto the scene in 2006 as Hannah Montana, a character that would become emblematic of her early years as a child star. The duality of her image—a sweet, likable teenage pop star on one end and a provocative, sometimes controversial figure on the other—has followed her throughout her career. From her early country-pop roots to her current position as a powerful pop icon, Cyrus has consistently pushed the boundaries of her artistry.

Her journey includes an album dedicated to exploring her more mature sides, such as Bangerz, which propelled her into the adult pop scene. Songs like "Wrecking Ball" showcased her vocal prowess and her ability to connect emotionally with an audience, which subsequently paved the way for her later work.

The Evolution of Pop Music and an Artist's Role

Cyrus's success is reflective of broader trends within the music industry. The evolution from solely physical record sales to a model that appreciates streaming numbers has reshaped how we evaluate artists' success. As musical styles shift towards varying genres—often within a single artist's discography—Cyrus embodies a multifaceted persona that resonates with diverse audiences. This adaptability may very well be a crucial factor in the longevity of her career.

The Grammy Win: Significance and Recognition

Cyrus's Grammy wins for "Flowers" are historic not merely for the accolades themselves but for what they represent to the collective narrative of pop music. Acknowledgment from the Recording Academy represents the culmination of years of hard work and commitment to artistic growth. The recognition affirms the importance of authenticity in an industry often criticized for favoring superficial trends over genuine talent.

In a world where female artists frequently face scrutiny regarding their evolving images, Cyrus stands firm, proving that adaptability, resilience, and authenticity can indeed lead to monumental success while inspiring others along the way.

Future Prospects for Miley Cyrus

As Miley Cyrus continues to expand her reach within the music industry, the implications of her 23 platinum certifications stretch beyond mere statistics. They signify a message of perseverance and self-expression, encouraging aspiring musicians to remain true to their craft amidst challenges.

With her recent successes, Cyrus has hinted at future music and projects potentially reflecting her personal growth and changes in perspective. The music industry will undoubtedly be watching closely as her narrative unfolds. With every hit, she not only adds to her discography but also shapes her enduring legacy.

FAQ

How many songs has Miley Cyrus released that achieved platinum status?

As of March 27, 2025, Miley Cyrus has achieved platinum certification for 23 songs.

What are the most recent singles that contributed to Miley Cyrus’s platinum status?

The recent singles "Flowers" and "Used to Be Young" have contributed to her milestone, achieving 7x platinum and platinum status, respectively.

What awards did Miley Cyrus win for "Flowers"?

Miley Cyrus won the Grammy Awards for Best Pop Solo Performance and Record of the Year for "Flowers" at the 2024 Grammy Awards.

What does it mean for a song to be certified platinum by the RIAA?

A song is certified platinum by the RIAA after it accumulates one million equivalent song units. This can be a result of both digital sales and streaming.

How has Miley Cyrus's music style evolved over the years?

Miley Cyrus's music has progressed from her country-pop origins on Hannah Montana to a more diverse sound, encompassing genres like pop, rock, and hip-hop, reflecting her growth and experiences throughout her career.