Hannah Montana fans rejoiced after hearing Miley Cyrus seemingly return to her country roots with the release of “Malibu.” The single was released Thursday, May 11, and serves as a tribute to her relationship with fiance Liam Hemsworth.

After ending her role as Hannah Montana and being released from the Disney image, Cyrus took some heat for spending some time experimenting with her sound and her outward appearance. During this time, Cyrus gifted her “smilers” with wild outfits and the songs “Wrecking Ball,” “Space Bootz,” “BB Talk,” etc. She also founded The Happy Hippie Foundation, a nonprofit organization for homeless and/or LGBTQ+ youth during this time.

Cyrus reports to Billboard magazine that “Malibu” is a way to put power “back in my relationship.” Cyrus and Hemsworth first met while filming The Last Song in 2010, and began a somewhat off and on relationship after filming. The pair reconnected in the beginning of 2016 and are now re-engaged. As the first track released since 2015’s “Miley Cyrus and Her Dead Petz,” “Malibu” is refreshing and uplifting. Lyrics such as
“now I’m as free as birds catching the wind,” make Cyrus’ current happiness in life evident.  

As one of her most personal songs yet, “Malibu” not only gives listeners a glimpse into Cyrus’ and Hemsworth’s relationship, but it also shows Cyrus’ appreciation for Hemsworth and for their growth and transformation.

“Malibu” is a great song for this summer, especially for those of us who grew up singing along to Hannah Montana songs and only ever wanted “the best of both worlds” for Miley.