Exclusive! ‘I Taught Miley How to Twerk,’ Says Amazon Ashley

Miley Cyrus’ racy turn at the MTV Video Music Awards in August landed the 20-year-old in a firestorm of controversy — and made “twerking” a household word.

Now, In Touch sits down with the woman behind the phenomenon for an exclusive interview. Here, Amazon Ashley, a 6-foot-7 LA-based burlesque star, confirms that she taught Miley how to twerk!

“We didn’t think people would be talking about it on CNN,” Ashley tells In Touch in regards to the backlash. The friends met when Miley was spotted by Ashley in the audience of Beacher’s Madhouse, a Hollywood nightclub known for its wild entertainment acts and celebrity regulars. The women struck up an unlikely friendship and Miley requested a tutorial on twerking.

“She’s taken it to a whole new level,” Ashley gushes. “The student has become the teacher!” Miley is so grateful to her mentor, she gave Ashley a cameo in her “We Can’t Stop” video, and invited her to take part in the infamous VMA appearance.

For all the details make sure to pick up the new issue of In Touch Weekly, on newsstands now.