The True Story Behind Miley Cyrus’ Drive Away Dolls Cameo
In 2006, Miley Cyrus’ breakout role as Hannah Montana on the Disney Channel catapulted her to stardom. The show’s success led to a massive following, and Cyrus’ music career took off with the release of her debut album "Breakout." One of the most iconic and memorable moments from her early career was her cameo appearance in the music video for the song "Drive Away" by Drive Away Dolls. But what’s the true story behind this cameo, and what made it so significant?
For those who may not be familiar, "Drive Away" is a power pop-rock song by Drive Away Dolls, a fictional band created for the music video. The song’s lyrics are about leaving a toxic relationship behind and moving on. The video features Miley Cyrus as a teenager who’s been in a tumultuous relationship and is now driving away from her ex-boyfriend, symbolizing her independence and newfound freedom.
Cyrus’ cameo was a result of her collaboration with the band’s lead singer, Justin Gaston. At the time, Gaston was a member of the boy band Tres Bien, and the two had met through mutual friends. Gaston had been a huge fan of Hannah Montana and was impressed by Cyrus’ talent and charisma. He reached out to her to collaborate on the music video, which would be a departure from her typical country-pop sound.
The music video was shot in Los Angeles, and Cyrus was only 14 years old at the time. She was still adjusting to her newfound fame and was excited to explore a different genre of music. Gaston has recalled that Cyrus was a total pro on set, and her energy was infectious. The two of them worked closely together to bring the song’s message to life, and their chemistry is evident in the final product.
The cameo was more than just a fun project for Cyrus; it marked a significant turning point in her career. "Drive Away" was one of the first times she experimented with a different sound and style, which would later influence her music and artistic direction. The video also showcased her acting chops, demonstrating her ability to take on a new role and adapt to different genres.
In an interview with MTV, Gaston reflected on the experience, saying, "Miley was an absolute dream to work with. She was so talented, and her passion for music was inspiring. I think ‘Drive Away’ was a defining moment in her career, and I’m honored to have been a part of it."
The music video for "Drive Away" has since become a nostalgic favorite among fans of Miley Cyrus and Drive Away Dolls. It’s a testament to the power of collaboration and the impact that working with others can have on one’s artistic growth. Today, Cyrus is a global superstar, known for her bold and unapologetic style. Her cameo in "Drive Away" may have been a small moment in her career, but it played a significant role in shaping her artistic identity and paving the way for her future success.
In conclusion, Miley Cyrus’ cameo in the music video for "Drive Away" by Drive Away Dolls was a pivotal moment in her career, marking a departure from her country-pop sound and showcasing her acting abilities. The collaboration with Justin Gaston was a defining moment in her artistic growth, and the music video remains a beloved nostalgic favorite among fans.