New York City commuters are used to many things — crowded platforms, rushing trains, and the occasional street musician. But in 2017, some subway riders got a surprise they would never forget when Jimmy Fallon and Miley Cyrus turned an ordinary subway station into an unforgettable pop-up concert.
The moment was filmed for The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon and quickly became one of the show’s most loved musical stunts.
To keep their identities hidden, Jimmy and Miley went undercover as everyday subway buskers. They wore cowboy hats, wigs, sunglasses, and casual clothes, hoping to blend in with the usual performers found in New York’s transit system.
They set up at the 47th–50th Street–Rockefeller Center subway station, just beneath where Fallon hosts his show. At first, passersby barely noticed — until the music started.
The duo kicked things off with “Jolene,” the classic Dolly Parton song that Miley has made famous in her own career. It didn’t take long for people to stop walking.
Miley’s voice — raw, powerful, and instantly recognizable — began turning heads. Commuters slowed down, crowds formed, and phones came out. Even with a disguise, her voice was impossible to hide.
Once enough people had gathered, Jimmy removed his disguise, revealing himself to the cheering crowd. Moments later, Miley followed, and the subway platform erupted with excitement.
To top it off, they launched into “Party in the U.S.A.”, playfully tweaking the lyrics to fit the setting — turning the station into a full-on subway party. Strangers sang along, laughed, and shared a moment of joy in the middle of their daily commute.
This subway performance worked because it felt unexpected and genuine. It reminded viewers that music doesn’t need a massive stage to make an impact — sometimes all it takes is a guitar, a great voice, and the right moment.
For the lucky commuters who were there, it was more than entertainment — it was a story they’d tell forever. And for fans watching later, it became another iconic Tonight Show moment that blended celebrity, humor, and real-world surprise.
