Cyndi Lauper is an American singer, songwriter, and actress who rose to fame in the 1980s with her unique style and powerful vocals. Born in Queens, New York, in 1953, Lauper began her music career in the early 1970s performing in local bands before achieving commercial success as a solo artist.
Lauper’s debut album, “She’s So Unusual,” released in 1983, was a huge commercial success, producing several hit singles, including “Girls Just Want to Have Fun,” “Time After Time,” and “She Bop.” The album’s innovative sound and bold fashion choices helped establish Lauper as an icon of 1980s pop culture.
Throughout her career, Lauper has continued to release chart-topping albums and hit singles, earning critical acclaim for her powerful vocals, songwriting, and ability to tackle important social issues in her music. She has won numerous awards, including two Grammys, and has sold over 50 million records worldwide.
In addition to her music career, Lauper has also acted in several films and television shows, including “The Goonies,” “Mad About You,” and “Bones.” She has also been involved in various humanitarian efforts, advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and supporting organizations that work to end homelessness and provide healthcare services to underserved communities.
Overall, Cyndi Lauper is a trailblazing artist whose unique style and powerful voice have made her an enduring icon of pop culture. Her influence on music and fashion continues to be felt today, cementing her place as one of the most iconic and beloved artists of her generation.
1. Girls Just Want To Have Fun
“Girls Just Want to Have Fun” is a song by American singer Cyndi Lauper, released in 1983. The song features a catchy, upbeat melody and empowering lyrics celebrating female independence and fun. The track became a massive hit, peaking at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning Lauper a Grammy nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” has since become a pop culture staple, frequently appearing in films, television shows, and commercials. Its message of empowerment and celebration of individuality has made it an enduring anthem for generations of women.
2. I Drove All Night
“I Drove All Night” is a song originally written and recorded by American singer-songwriter Roy Orbison in 1987. However, it was Cyndi Lauper’s 1989 version that achieved commercial success. The song features Lauper’s signature powerful vocals and a driving synth-pop beat, with lyrics about a person driving through the night to be with their lover. The song’s bridge features a soaring guitar solo, adding to the emotional intensity of the track. “I Drove All Night” showcases Lauper’s ability to deliver a pop ballad with a rock edge, solidifying her status as a versatile and talented artist in the late 80s.
3. Time After Time
“Time After Time” is a pop ballad by American singer-songwriter Cyndi Lauper, released in 1984 as the second single from her debut album, “She’s So Unusual”. The song’s introspective lyrics and haunting melody have made it a timeless classic, with its themes of love, loss, and nostalgia resonating with audiences for decades. Lauper’s emotive vocals, combined with the song’s iconic synthesizer riff and gentle acoustic guitar, create a powerful emotional resonance. “Time After Time” has been covered by numerous artists and has appeared in movies, TV shows, and commercials, cementing its place as one of the most beloved pop songs of all time.
4. True Colors
“True Colors” is a song by American singer Cyndi Lauper, released in 1986. The song features a simple, emotive melody and lyrics that encourage listeners to be true to themselves and embrace their individuality. The track was a hit, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and earning Lauper a Grammy nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. “True Colors” has since become a beloved classic, frequently covered by other artists and used in film and television. Its message of acceptance and self-love has resonated with generations of listeners, cementing its place as one of the most iconic songs of the 1980s.
5. Money Changes Everything
“Money Changes Everything” is a new wave and rock song recorded by Cyndi Lauper for her debut album “She’s So Unusual” in 1983. The song was written by Tom Gray and explores the theme of money changing people’s behavior and relationships. Lauper’s dynamic and passionate vocal performance is complemented by a guitar-driven arrangement, punctuated by a catchy synth riff. The track’s up-tempo beat and catchy chorus helped it become a hit, reaching number 27 on the US Billboard Hot 100. “Money Changes Everything” is a showcase of Lauper’s songwriting and vocal abilities, and a highlight of her critically acclaimed debut album.
6. Change Of Heart
“Change of Heart” is a pop-rock song by American singer-songwriter Cyndi Lauper, released in 1986 as the lead single from her album “True Colors”. The song features a driving beat and catchy guitar riffs, showcasing Lauper’s ability to blend rock and pop influences. Its lyrics explore the aftermath of a failed relationship, as Lauper defiantly declares her independence and refuses to be hurt by love again. The song’s uplifting message of self-empowerment and resilience, combined with Lauper’s dynamic vocals and memorable hooks, have made “Change of Heart” a fan favorite and a classic example of 80s pop-rock.
7. Come On Home
“Come On Home” is a song by American singer Cyndi Lauper, released in 1998. The song features a bluesy, soulful sound, with Lauper’s powerful vocals taking center stage. The lyrics describe a lover’s plea for their partner to come back home, expressing feelings of loneliness and heartbreak. “Come On Home” showcases Lauper’s ability to tackle different genres and musical styles, and her emotional delivery adds depth and intensity to the song. While not as commercially successful as some of her earlier hits, “Come On Home” remains a fan favorite and a testament to Lauper’s versatility as a musician.
8. Just Your Fool
“Just Your Fool” is a blues song recorded by Cyndi Lauper for her album “Memphis Blues” in 2010. The track features a stripped-down arrangement of guitar, harmonica, and drums, providing a solid bluesy foundation for Lauper’s emotive vocals. The lyrics depict a woman who has been cheated on by her lover and now regrets ever falling for them. Lauper’s raw and soulful delivery channels the pain and heartache of the lyrics, making the song a standout track on the album. “Just Your Fool” showcases Lauper’s ability to tackle new genres and proves her to be a versatile and talented artist.
9. Sisters Of Avalon
“Sisters of Avalon” is a song by American singer-songwriter Cyndi Lauper, released in 1996 as the title track of her album of the same name. The song features a mystical, ethereal sound, with haunting vocals, atmospheric synthesizers, and intricate percussion. The lyrics draw on the Arthurian legend of Avalon, a mystical island associated with feminine power and wisdom. Lauper’s vocals convey a sense of otherworldly mystery and spirituality, and the song’s intricate production creates a dreamlike atmosphere. “Sisters of Avalon” is a departure from Lauper’s earlier pop hits, showcasing her versatility as an artist and her willingness to explore new sounds and themes.
10. The Goonies ‘r’ Good Enough
“The Goonies ‘r’ Good Enough” is a song by American singer Cyndi Lauper, released in 1985 as the theme song for the film “The Goonies.” The song features a catchy, upbeat melody and lyrics that capture the adventurous spirit of the film’s young protagonists. The track was a hit, reaching the top 10 on several charts and earning Lauper a Grammy nomination for Best Song Written Specifically for a Motion Picture or Television. “The Goonies ‘r’ Good Enough” has since become a beloved classic, remembered not just as a catchy tune but as a tribute to a beloved childhood classic film.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
