Quick Wiki
- Full Name Cynthia Ann Stephanie Lauper
- Birth Date Jun 22, 1953
- Age 71 Years, 5 Months
- Ethnicity German, Swiss, Italian, and American
- Nationality American
- Birthplace New York City
- Occupation Singer-songwriter-producer-actress-activist
- Parents Fred, Catrine
- Mother Catrine
- Father Fred
- Husband David Thornton
- Son Declyn
Cyndi Lauper | Biography
Cyndi Lauper, the pop music icon, announces her farewell tour, visiting 23 cities in North America. This marks a celebration of her career and connection with fans.
Who is Cyndi Lauper?
Cyndi Lauper, born Cynthia Ann Stephanie Lauper on June 22, 1953, in Astoria, New York, is a renowned American singer and songwriter who made a significant impact on the pop music scene. She rose to fame with her debut album, *She’s So Unusual*, released in 1983, which featured iconic hits like "Girls Just Want to Have Fun" and "Time After Time." This album not only sold over 6 million copies in the U.S. but also established Lauper as a cultural icon known for her eclectic fashion sense and powerful vocal style. Throughout her career, she has sold over 50 million records worldwide, solidifying her status as a music legend.
Beyond her musical achievements, Lauper is also recognized for her contributions to social activism, particularly in the LGBTQ+ community. She founded the True Colors Fund, which advocates for equal rights and raises awareness about homelessness among LGBTQ+ youth. Lauper's commitment to activism is reflected in her music and public appearances, where she emphasizes the importance of acceptance and love for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation. Her work has earned her numerous accolades, including a Grammy Award, an Emmy Award, and Tony Awards, showcasing her multifaceted talents in music, television, and theater.
Cyndi's Early Life
Cynthia Ann Stephanie Lauper was born on June 22, 1953, in Astoria, New York. Her family later moved to Ozone Park, Queens, where she spent her formative years. Raised in a challenging environment, Lauper faced the difficulties of her parents' divorce at a young age. Her mother, a waitress, worked tirelessly to support her and her two siblings, often introducing them to the arts by taking them to see plays and visit museums in Manhattan. Despite her tumultuous upbringing, Lauper found solace in music, discovering her passion for singing and songwriting by the age of 12.
Lauper's academic journey was rocky; she struggled in school and was expelled from several parochial institutions. However, her love for music never waned. After earning her high school equivalency degree, she juggled various odd jobs, including waitressing and performing at a Japanese restaurant, while pursuing her music career. During this time, she played in several bands, eventually finding some success with Blue Angel, which led to her first record deal. This early exposure to the music industry laid the groundwork for Lauper's future as a pop icon, setting the stage for her groundbreaking debut album, "She's So Unusual."
Career Highlights
Cyndi Lauper, born on June 22, 1953, in Astoria, New York, rose to fame with her debut album, *She’s So Unusual*, released in 1983. This groundbreaking album featured iconic hits like "Girls Just Want to Have Fun" and "Time After Time," propelling her into the spotlight and earning her the Grammy Award for Best New Artist in 1984. Lauper's unique style, characterized by eclectic fashion and flamboyant hair, captivated audiences and solidified her status as a pop music icon. The album itself sold over 6 million copies in the U.S. and 16 million worldwide, marking the beginning of her illustrious career in the music industry.
Throughout her career, Lauper has continued to evolve as an artist, exploring various genres and artistic avenues. Her 1986 album, *True Colors*, showcased a more mature sound and included the title track, which became an anthem for the LGBTQ+ community. In addition to her music career, Lauper made significant strides in theater, winning six Tony Awards for her work on the musical *Kinky Boots*, which she co-created with Harvey Fierstein. This achievement made her the first solo female to win the Tony Award for Best Musical. Lauper's contributions to both music and theater have left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry, showcasing her versatility and enduring talent.
Personal Life: Husband and Son
Cyndi Lauper has been married to actor David Thornton since 1991. The couple first met on the set of the film *Off and Running*, shortly after Lauper ended a previous relationship with her boyfriend and manager, Dave Wolff. Their bond has endured over the years, showcasing a supportive partnership that has weathered both personal and professional challenges. Thornton has often been seen accompanying Lauper at various events, and their relationship is characterized by mutual respect and admiration.
Together, Lauper and Thornton have one son, Declyn, who was born in 1994. Declyn has pursued a career in music, gaining recognition as a rapper, notably collaborating with G-Eazy on the 2019 track "K I D S." However, his journey has not been without its difficulties; he has faced legal issues, including arrests for driving a stolen vehicle and possession of a firearm. Despite these challenges, Lauper remains a dedicated mother, often expressing her pride in Declyn's artistic endeavors while also emphasizing the importance of learning from life's experiences.
Charitable Causes
Cyndi Lauper has been a passionate advocate for various social issues, particularly focusing on LGBTQ+ rights. Her commitment to civil rights is evident in her belief that equality should be afforded to every individual, regardless of their background. Lauper founded the True Colors Fund, which aims to raise awareness and promote equality for the LGBTQ+ community. Through this organization, she has worked tirelessly to combat discrimination and ensure that everyone can express their true identity without fear of judgment or prejudice. Her advocacy emphasizes that a true democracy must embrace diversity and inclusivity.
In addition to her work with the True Colors Fund, Lauper has participated in various fundraising initiatives and events to support her causes. She has used her platform to raise awareness about issues such as homelessness among LGBTQ+ youth, emphasizing the critical need for support and resources for those in marginalized communities. Lauper has also appeared on reality television shows like The Celebrity Apprentice, where she leveraged her participation to benefit her charity work. Her dedication to activism not only reflects her personal values but also inspires her fans to engage in social justice efforts.
