**Artist:** Miley Cyrus
**Song Title:** We Can't Stop
**Album:** Bangerz
**Release Date:** June 3, 2013
**Genre:** Pop, Synthpop, R&B
**Label:** RCA Records
**Songwriters:** Miley Cyrus, Mike Will Made It, Rock City, and others
**Producers:** Mike Will Made It, P-Nasty, and Rock City

#### **Background**

"We Can't Stop" is a single from Miley Cyrus's fourth studio album, *Bangerz*. Released in 2013, the song marked a significant shift in Cyrus's musical style and public image. Known for her previous work on the Disney Channel and her country-pop sound, "We Can't Stop" introduced a more mature, edgy, and controversial side of the artist.

#### **Lyrics and Themes**

The lyrics of "We Can't Stop" revolve around themes of freedom, self-expression, and partying. It's an anthem of youthful defiance and living in the moment, emphasizing the idea of enjoying life without restrictions or judgment. The song contains references to drug use, partying, and a carefree lifestyle, which contributed to its controversial reception.

Key lyrics include:
- "And we can't stop / And we won't stop"
- "It's our party, we can do what we want"
- "We run things, things don't run we"

#### **Musical Style**

"We Can't Stop" blends pop, synthpop, and R&B elements, characterized by its laid-back tempo, catchy hook, and minimalistic production. The song features a prominent use of synthesizers and a rhythmic beat that complements its party-centric theme. The production style reflects the influence of its producer, Mike Will Made It, known for his work in the hip-hop and pop genres.

#### **Music Video**

Directed by Diane Martel, the music video for "We Can't Stop" is infamous for its provocative and surreal imagery. It features scenes of wild parties, bizarre visuals, and bold fashion choices, showcasing Cyrus in a new, rebellious light. The video's content, including twerking, drug references, and other mature themes, sparked significant media attention and controversy.

#### **Reception and Impact**

"We Can't Stop" received mixed reviews from critics. While some praised its catchy nature and bold departure from Cyrus's previous work, others criticized its lyrical content and perceived lack of depth. Despite the mixed critical reception, the song was a commercial success, peaking at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and achieving high chart positions in several other countries.

#### **Cultural Influence**

The release of "We Can't Stop" marked a pivotal moment in Miley Cyrus's career, establishing her as a pop culture provocateur and a prominent figure in the music industry. The song, along with its controversial music video, played a significant role in shaping the public's perception of Cyrus and contributed to the broader conversation about artistic expression and the boundaries of pop music.

#### **Conclusion**

"We Can't Stop" remains one of Miley Cyrus's most recognizable and talked-about songs. It encapsulates a period of significant transformation for the artist, both musically and personally. The song's bold themes and memorable production continue to resonate with fans and exemplify Cyrus's fearless approach to her career and artistry.

Lyrics:
And we can't stop (Whoa)
And we won't stop (Whoa)
Can't you see it's we who own the night?
Can't you see it's we who 'bout that life?
And we can't stop (Whoa)
And we won't stop (Whoa)
We run things, things don't run we
Don't take nothing from nobody, yeah, yeah

#MileyCyrus #WeCantStop #OfficialVideo