Cyndi Lauper and Sam Smith's performance at Madison Square Garden is more than just a nostalgic trip down memory lane, it's a powerful reminder of music's unifying power and Lauper's enduring impact on pop culture and social justice.
- October 31, 2024
AceShowbiz - Cyndi Lauper's "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun Farewell Tour" kicked off with a bang at Madison Square Garden, where she reunited with Sam Smith to perform her 1984 hit "Time After Time". This duet not only lit up the iconic venue but also marked a significant moment for fans.
Their previous collaboration occurred in 2022 at the White House, celebrating the passing of the Respect for Marriage Act. Lauper, an ardent LGBTQ+ rights advocate, performed "True Colors", while Smith gave a heartfelt rendition of "Stay With Me", tweaking the lyrics to "this is love, it's clear to see" to commemorate the historic occasion.
The sentimental value of "Time After Time" touches not just Lauper's fans but also the younger generation. Written by Lauper with assistance from Rob Hyman, it was her first #1 hit and arguably her signature song. Despite the label's initial push for the ballad to be her debut single, Lauper insisted on "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" to avoid being pigeonholed as a balladeer. The calculated risk paid off, establishing her as a versatile and influential artist.
In the political sphere, artists like Lauper have been a beacon of advocacy. In the closing days of the 2012 presidential campaign, the New Radicals' Gregg Alexander and Danielle Brisebois joined forces with Ne-Yo, the Goo Goo Dolls' Johnny Rzeznik, Herbie Hancock and others to create the Barack Obama campaign anthem "Forward". Fast forward twelve years, they revisited this initiative for Kamala Harris, updating the song as "Forward (WE'RE NOT GOING BACK!)" with cameos from Jeff Bridges and David Hogg, produced by John Shanks, Alexander and Nick Lashley.
The updated anthem, supported by The Coda Campaign, reflects the urgency surrounding democracy and women's rights, emphasized through powerful visuals by artist Shepard Fairey, who also created the iconic "Hope" artwork for Obama in 2008. The Not So Silent Collective, including Shepard Fairey and David Hogg, utilize their platform to advocate for democracy and encourage voter participation.
As Lauper embarks on her 23-city tour with diverse opening acts, her impact remains palpable. From her timeless music to her staunch advocacy, Lauper continues to inspire and resonate with generations, reminding everyone that the fight for equality and justice is one worth pursuing-time after time.
