Five Things You Didn’t Know About Cyndi Lauper
Cyndi Lauper, the iconic pop singer known for her eclectic style and powerful voice, has been a significant figure in the music industry since the 1980s. While many are familiar with her hits like “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” and “Time After Time,” there are numerous fascinating aspects of her life and career that are less well-known. Here are five surprising facts about Cyndi Lauper that might just make you appreciate her even more.
1. Broadway Sensation: A Tony Award-Winning Composer – While Cyndi Lauper is primarily celebrated for her pop music career, she has also made a significant mark on Broadway. In 2013, Lauper composed the music and lyrics for the Broadway musical “Kinky Boots,” which was based on the 2005 film of the same name. Her work on the musical earned her the Tony Award for Best Original Score, making her the first woman to win the award solo. “Kinky Boots” was a major success, winning six Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and ran for six years on Broadway.
Advocate and Activist: Champion for LGBTQ+ Rights – Beyond her musical achievements, Lauper has been a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ rights for decades. She co-founded the True Colors Fund in 2008, an organization dedicated to ending homelessness among LGBTQ+ youth. The fund works to raise awareness and provide support and resources to this vulnerable population. Lauper’s advocacy work has had a substantial impact, and she continues to be a vocal supporter of equality and human rights.
Television and Film: Acting Career Highlights – Cyndi Lauper’s talents extend beyond singing and songwriting; she has also enjoyed a diverse acting career. She has appeared in numerous television shows and films, showcasing her versatility as an actress. Notably, Lauper starred in the sitcom “Mad About You,” where she played the character Marianne Lugasso, a role that earned her an Emmy Award in 1995 for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series. Additionally, she has appeared in movies such as “Vibes” (1988) and has lent her voice to animated series, including “Sabrina, the Teenage Witch.”
Fashion Icon: Influencing Style Across Decades – Lauper’s unique and colorful fashion sense has been as influential as her music. Her bold style in the 1980s, characterized by vibrant hair colors, mismatched clothes, and eccentric accessories, challenged traditional fashion norms and inspired a generation. Her look was a blend of punk, pop, and new wave styles, making her a fashion icon of the era. Even today, Lauper continues to influence fashion with her daring and unconventional choices, proving that true style is timeless.
Literary Ventures: Author and Storyteller – In addition to her accomplishments in music and acting, Cyndi Lauper is also an author. In 2012, she released her autobiography, “Cyndi Lauper: A Memoir,” co-written with journalist Jancee Dunn. The memoir provides an intimate look at her life, detailing her rise to fame, personal struggles, and the experiences that have shaped her as an artist and individual. The book received positive reviews for its candid and heartfelt storytelling, offering fans a deeper understanding of Lauper’s journey and the person behind the persona.