Billy Ray Cyrus has given his approval to his daughter, Miley Cyrus, simplifying her stage name to just “Miley” as she begins a new chapter in her music career.
The pop star dropped “Cyrus” from her artist name ahead of her upcoming Bass Persuades era. Her father said the decision felt natural to him and revealed that he had already spoken with Miley about the change.
Billy Ray Cyrus addressed his daughter, Miley, ditching her famous surname ahead of her new era
“I told @miley yesterday I felt good about her going with her first name,” Billy Ray wrote. He compared the move to other stars known largely by one name, including Dolly Parton, Cher, Elvis Presley and Prince.
“It’s a natural progression for an iconic superstar legend,” he added. “And the legend continues! Looking forward to the new album.”
Billy Ray also explained that calling his daughter simply Miley was nothing new within their family.
“Family means more than ever now. I always called my little girl Miley. Just … Miley,” he wrote.
The country singer then joked that he once wanted a similarly simplified professional identity. Before “Achy Breaky Heart” became a hit in 1992, Billy Ray said his merchandise featured only the name “CYRUS.” He joked that his record label should have allowed him to use that professionally instead of insisting on “Billy Ray.”
The Miley Cyrus name change arrives alongside her upcoming album, Bass Persuades, and newly announced live dates. The shift applies to her artist identity, with the source making no claim that she legally changed her surname.
Billy Ray’s supportive comments also follow a period in which the Cyrus family faced public speculation about tension between relatives. He recently said the family has focused on moving forward rather than revisiting previous difficulties.
“The past is over and done. The future is what we have, and we got to look forward,” he told PEOPLE.
Miley and her father have also recently worked together again, filming Disney+’s Hannah Montana 20th anniversary special. Billy Ray separately collaborated with son Braison on The Hill, while daughter Noah contributed to the album.
For Billy Ray, Miley becoming simply “Miley” represents another step in a career he says he continues to support.
