Miley Cyrus Reveals Dolly Parton’s Brutally Honest Advice: “That Should Have Been My Song!”

Miley Cyrus and Dolly Parton share a unique bond that goes beyond their professional collaborations—they’re family. Parton, who is Miley’s godmother, has been an important figure in the pop star’s life for years. In a recent interview, Miley shared some candid insights about Dolly’s no-nonsense approach to life and music, revealing the wisdom and humor that makes their relationship so special.

One of the standout moments from Miley’s interview in Harper’s Bazaar was her reflection on Dolly’s brutally honest advice regarding her 2023 ballad Used to Be Young. The song, which deeply explores Miley’s feelings of having grown up in the spotlight, had a profound emotional weight for the singer. Miley herself admits that, at times, she questioned whether she should have shared such a personal piece of music with the world. “It’s one of those things that maybe now that I’m a bit more private, I would’ve kept private,” she explained, acknowledging the raw vulnerability embedded in the song.

However, Dolly wasn’t shy about sharing her own thoughts on Miley’s track. According to Miley, Dolly heard Used to Be Young and immediately expressed her opinion with typical Parton candor. “She goes, ‘I don’t know if I like that new “Used to Be Young” song because it’s not fair that you’re singing about not being young when you’re young and beautiful. And here I am—I’m like 80—and I’m like, That should have been my song!’”

Miley couldn’t help but laugh at her godmother’s response, noting that Dolly’s boldness and humor are part of what makes her such a remarkable figure. It’s clear that Parton doesn’t hold back, even when it comes to offering critiques of Miley’s career, but it’s also evident that their bond is one of deep mutual respect and love. Miley says of Dolly, “She lets everyone in and no one in at the same time. Everyone feels like they know her, but they’re also okay with the fact that they don’t see her without makeup, without the full drag.”

For Miley, Dolly is not just a godmother; she’s a guiding force. Over the years, she has learned a great deal from Dolly’s unfiltered outlook on life, both personally and professionally. From handling the pressures of fame to navigating her musical career, Miley values Dolly’s wisdom and ability to stay true to herself.

Despite the humorous quip about Used to Be Young, it’s clear that Dolly’s influence is a cornerstone of Miley’s development as both an artist and an individual. Parton’s unapologetic honesty and fierce individuality have no doubt shaped Miley’s own approach to music and life. It’s a rare and beautiful connection—one that continues to inspire both artists and fans alike.

In the end, Miley and Dolly’s relationship exemplifies what it means to be authentic, to share vulnerability, and to embrace the complexities of growing up in the public eye. And while Dolly may have claimed Used to Be Young as her own, it’s clear that the song—and the lessons it imparts—will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come.