LA Money (feat. Dua Lipa)
Miley Cyrus
The Illusion of Fame and Identity in 'LA Money'
In 'LA Money,' Miley Cyrus, featuring Dua Lipa, delves into the complexities and superficialities of fame, particularly in the glitzy yet often hollow world of Los Angeles. The song opens with a sense of urgency and escape, as Cyrus sings about needing to run because 'they are after me.' This sets the tone for a narrative about the pressures and judgments that come with being in the public eye.
The chorus emphasizes the disconnect between the public's perception and the artist's true self. Cyrus repeatedly asserts, 'They don't even know who I am,' highlighting the superficial judgments and false narratives that surround her. The line 'Getting caught up on L.A. money' suggests that people are more interested in the wealth and glamour associated with her fame rather than understanding her as a person. This sentiment is further reinforced by the mention of 'fake-ass fiction,' indicating that the love and admiration she receives are often based on a fabricated image rather than reality.
Cyrus also touches on the fleeting nature of fame and the forgetfulness of even her 'famous friends,' who seem to overlook the inevitability of mortality. The line 'What's happenin' is not what you see, all the pictures lie' serves as a poignant reminder that the images and stories portrayed in the media are often far from the truth. The song's bridge, with its mention of 'young miracles' and 'faces on the billboards,' encapsulates the allure and the ultimate emptiness of celebrity culture. Through 'LA Money,' Cyrus and Lipa offer a candid look at the isolating and often misunderstood life of a celebrity, urging listeners to look beyond the surface and recognize the person behind the fame.