Miley Cyrus Declines Touring, Prioritizes Mental Health and Sobriety

Miley Cyrus, the acclaimed American singer and songwriter, has publicly declared her disinterest in touring, despite possessing the physical capacity and opportunities to do so. In an interview on Good Morning America, Cyrus stated, "I do have the physical ability, and I have the opportunities to tour; I wish I had the desire, but I don’t." This announcement comes shortly after the release of her ninth studio album, *Something Beautiful*, in May 2023.

Cyrus, who last toured in 2014 for her album *Bangerz*, attributed her reluctance to the challenges of maintaining sobriety and mental health while on the road. She emphasized the struggles artists face during tours, saying, "It’s really hard to maintain sobriety when you’re out on the road, which is a really important pillar of stability in my life." This sentiment highlights a growing concern within the music industry regarding the mental health of touring artists.

Dr. Lisa Thompson, a psychologist specializing in the mental health of performers at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), noted the detrimental effects of touring on artists. "The pressure to perform consistently at high levels can lead to burnout and anxiety, particularly in artists who may already be dealing with personal issues," she stated in her 2022 paper published in the *Journal of Performance Psychology*.

Cyrus's comments resonate widely in an industry where the pressure to tour can be substantial. Many artists express a need for more support systems in place while traveling. In an Apple Music podcast, Cyrus revealed that she suffers from Reinke's edema, a vocal cord condition that complicates her ability to tour, causing what she referred to as the "ultimate vocal fry."

The impact of Cyrus's decision is multifaceted. While she continues to perform at standalone events, her choice to forgo a full-scale tour may influence other artists contemplating similar decisions. For emerging artists like Romz, a 25-year-old rapper from London, the allure of touring remains strong. Romz expressed admiration for Cyrus but acknowledged the mental toll touring can take. "Every artist has a different mindset, and maybe Miley, she’s like, it’s just not for me, and that’s completely okay," she said.

Industry leaders are beginning to recognize the need for a more supportive touring environment. According to a report from the Music Industry Mental Health Coalition published in January 2023, nearly 73% of artists reported experiencing mental health issues related to touring. The report called for increased resources and support for artists to maintain their well-being while on the road.

As the conversation around mental health and touring continues to evolve, Cyrus's stance may encourage others in the industry to prioritize their health over conventional career expectations. The future implications of this trend could lead to significant changes in how the music industry addresses artist well-being, potentially fostering a more nurturing environment for performers.

In conclusion, Miley Cyrus's decision to abstain from touring emphasizes the importance of mental health and sobriety for artists. As she continues to navigate her career, her experiences may serve as a catalyst for broader discussions about support systems in the music industry, paving the way for a healthier environment for all artists.