In a recent interview on the “Fitzy and Wippa with Kate Ritchie” podcast, country music icon Keith Urban caused a stir with his colorful praise for pop superstar Miley Cyrus. Urban, 56, who has long admired Cyrus, 31, used an unconventional metaphor to describe her voice, leading to a mix of confusion and intrigue among fans.
On September 4, Urban spoke passionately about his admiration for Miley Cyrus, stating, “I love Miley. I’ve always loved Miley.” The conversation took an unexpected turn when he described her distinctive voice by saying, “She sounds like an ashtray — and I mean that as a compliment.” Urban further elaborated, “She sounds like the carpet at the RSL [Returned and Services League of Australia]!” He went on to stress, “I literally mean that as a compliment.”
The remark drew attention not only because of its unconventional nature but also because it seemed to contrast sharply with typical praise for singers. In Australian slang, describing something as “like an ashtray” might suggest a gritty or raw quality, and Urban’s comment seemed intended to highlight the unique and unpolished characteristics of Cyrus’s vocal style.
Keith Urban’s admiration for Miley Cyrus is not a new development. Over the years, Urban has demonstrated his respect for Cyrus’s work. While on tour, he has been known to cover her Grammy Award-winning hits, showcasing his appreciation for her musical talent. In a memorable television appearance, Urban and Cyrus appeared together on Good Morning America with Ryan Seacrest, further solidifying their mutual respect.
Urban’s praise for other artists further emphasizes his unique approach to admiration. In a previous interview with PEOPLE, the “Blue Ain’t Your Color” singer expressed his high regard for Taylor Swift and Ariana Grande. Urban lauded Taylor Swift’s songwriting prowess, stating, “I mean, God, Taylor’s songwriting, it’s so extraordinary.” He specifically mentioned Swift’s 2024 album, The Tortured Poets Department, praising it as more proof of her exceptional writing talent.
Regarding Ariana Grande, Urban was equally enthusiastic, describing her song “We Can’t Be Friends” as “audible heroin.” “I don’t know what is going on with that song, but I could not stop playing it,” Urban admitted. His appreciation for Grande extends to her distinct vocal style, which he compares to that of Swift, noting, “I like singers that you know their voice immediately.”
Urban’s love for Ariana Grande’s music is evident in his social media activity. He shared an Instagram video of himself performing Grande’s hit single, tagging the singer with the caption, “This song is audible heroin @arianagrande.” This post garnered attention for its enthusiastic praise and Urban’s candid expression of his admiration.
The conversation about Urban’s comment on Miley Cyrus’s voice has sparked widespread discussion among fans and media alike. While some may find the comparison unconventional, Urban’s intent was to celebrate Cyrus’s unique sound rather than criticize it. His colorful language reflects a personal and heartfelt way of expressing his respect for artists who break the mold and create music that resonates on a deeper level.
Urban’s career has been marked by his willingness to support and celebrate fellow musicians, regardless of the conventionality of his praise. His ability to articulate his admiration in vivid and memorable terms underscores his passion for music and his respect for those who bring originality and authenticity to their craft.
In summary, Keith Urban’s recent remarks about Miley Cyrus serve as a testament to his distinctive approach to expressing admiration for fellow artists. While his description of Cyrus’s voice as “like an ashtray” may have initially raised eyebrows, it is clear that Urban intended it as a sincere compliment, celebrating the unique and impactful qualities of Cyrus’s vocal performance.
