She successfully navigated the contrast between restrained verses and the explosive, belting chorus, capturing the anger and pain of the original protest anthem.
Critics and fans alike highlighted several key elements of the performance:
Reviewers from Rolling Stone described it as a "powerful cover" that highlighted her range and stage presence. NME characterized the rendition as "raucous" and a highlight of the fundraising event. Miley Cyrus - Live from Whisky a Go Go - Zombie #SOSFEST
Miley Cyrus ’s live rendition of "Zombie" at the 2020 is widely regarded as a career-defining moment that cemented her transition from pop star to rock icon. Performing at the legendary Whisky a Go Go , she delivered a gritty, high-octane cover that drew immense praise for its raw emotional intensity and vocal power . Critical & Peer Reception
Rather than a polished pop cover, Cyrus utilized "controlled damage"—leaning into grit, distortion, and cracks in her voice to mirror the song’s volatility. Miley Cyrus ’s live rendition of "Zombie" at
The band publicly lauded the cover, calling it "one of the finest covers of the song that we’ve heard" and stating they believed late frontwoman Dolores O’Riordan would have been "very impressed".
The performance received rare, high-level validation from the source itself: The band publicly lauded the cover, calling it
Carson Daly on TODAY noted that Cyrus was "embracing her rock side" and that "it's working," while other commentators praised her ability to adapt O'Riordan's unique vocal techniques, like switching registers, to her own raspy style. Vocal Performance & Style