Music is a language of love. It requires passion to perform. About a bajillion songs about affection and adoration have been released and unleashed into the world. That’s why most—read: the vast, vast majority—of singers are mature adults. Rare is it that a popular artist is below 20 years old and even more rare are they (well under) 18 years of age.
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That’s why when one crops up in popular music it’s so surprising. Here below, we wanted to explore the careers of three of them. A trio of artists who gained popularity and critical acclaim before they could get their driver’s license. Indeed, these are three of the best underage singers of all time in pop music.
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Miley Cyrus
Miley Cyrus, the daughter of country star Billy Ray Cyrus, got her gig on the Disney Channel show Hannah Montana when she was 13 years old. From then on, she’s been in the public eye and one of the biggest stars on stage and screen. With a voice like a power plant and a charm like spell, Cyrus has parlayed her success as a teen into global acclaim, known today for songs like “Flowers” and “Wrecking Ball.” But none of that would have happened had it not been for her standout artistry and charisma at a time in her life when most people are putting on pimple cream.
Shirley Temple
Actress Shirley Temple first performed her iconic signature song “On the Good Ship Lollipop” when she was 6 YEARS OLD (for the film Bright Eyes). And she did it so convincingly she became a household name almost immediately. With the mannerisms of an adult and the talent of a genius, Temple remains an outlier when it comes to musical careers. When most people are just entering kindergarten, Temple was one of the world’s biggest stars. Incredible stuff that may never be replicated again in pop music history.
Michael Jackson
Something amazing happens when a 11-year-old Michael Jackson sings: Oh baby give me one more chance! Not only is his voice perfect and the song catchy, but what’s most incredible is that as listeners we believe him. We accept his performance of this love song despite the fact he likely had no idea what the words meant, personally. Or that he at least doesn’t have any experience with the stories behind them. That’s talent. Of course, Michael Jackson would become one of the best solo performers of all time. But even before songs like “Bad” and “Thriller,” he was part of the family band The Jackson 5.
Photo by Jason Kempin/FilmMagic
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