We know the sales might not match up due to this now being the digital era with piracy more prevalent due to easy access to computers and technology, but Miley is definitely the new queen of controversy. Like Britney, she has had high profile romances with heartthrobs. Like Britney, she started young in the industry and was America's sweetheart and has grown up before our eyes. Like Britney did in the past, every demographic has Miley's name in their mouths, meaning she has done something right. She even generated more buzz for Wrecking Ball than Britney was ever able to do for any of her videos.
Miley's VMA performance was also the most shocking and buzz-generating performance since Britney's iconic 2007 performance of Gimme More.
With all of that being said, has Miley surpassed Britney's peak?
LOL Never even possible, she won't ever get close to it. No one will any more. That worldwide and global legacy is untouchable and cannot be taken away by current quick little hit songs limited to the US charts.