How Miley Cyrus is using a "Wrecking Ball" to Redefine the American Dream

I've led most of my life under the impression that Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift and Miley Cyrus had as much value to music as Barney's "I Love You, You Love Me". I look for depth in music, as I do in life, culture, and society.

This is why I am so surprised by the new wave of pop music coming out over the last few months. There are some far left home runs from people like Naughty Boy and Macklemore that deserve standing ovations. I was fortunate to grow up during a time of Kurt Cobain and Tori Amos. What, then, can Miley Cyrus offer music when compared to the likes of Gotye, Imogen Heap, or Janelle Monae?

In all honesty, very little we haven't seen before. Beautiful body, great (auto-tuned) voice, and great marketing. Looking at her portfolio, she shouldn't stand out anymore than Britney Spears or Milli Vanilli.

What makes this song great?