Early Life and Education of Cyndi Lauper: A Complete Timeline

Discover the defining moments in the early life of Cyndi Lauper. From birth to education, explore key events.

Cyndi Lauper is an American singer, songwriter, and actress recognized for her unique style, vocal range, and significant contributions to the music industry, having sold over 50 million records globally. Beyond her artistic achievements, she is also known for her advocacy and humanitarian work, particularly her support for LGBT rights in the United States.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

1930: Birth of Catrine Gallo

In 1930, Cyndi Lauper's mother, Catrine (née Gallo), was born. She passed away in 2022.

June 22, 1953: Cyndi Lauper's Birth

On June 22, 1953, Cynthia Ann Stephanie Lauper was born in Brooklyn, New York City. She is an American singer, songwriter, and actress.

1977: Vocal Cord Damage

In 1977, Cyndi Lauper damaged her vocal cords and took a year off from singing. She was told she might never sing again but regained her voice with help.

1985: Participation in "We Are the World"

In 1985, Cyndi Lauper participated in USA for Africa's famine-relief fund-raising single "We Are the World".

December 6, 1988: Death of Roy Orbison

On December 6, 1988, Roy Orbison, the original artist of "I Drove All Night", died three years before Cyndi Lauper released her version as a hit single.

May 1990: John Lennon Tribute Concert

In May 1990, Cyndi Lauper participated in the John Lennon tribute concert in Liverpool, performing "Hey Bulldog" and "Working Class Hero".

November 24, 1991: Marriage to David Thornton

On November 24, 1991, Cyndi Lauper married actor David Thornton.

November 19, 1997: Birth of Son Declyn Wallace Lauper Thornton

On November 19, 1997, Cyndi Lauper gave birth to her son, Declyn Wallace Lauper Thornton.

March 2011: Impromptu Performance in Buenos Aires

In March 2011, Cyndi Lauper made international news for an impromptu performance of "Girls Just Want to Have Fun" at an airport in Buenos Aires.

September 2012: Fashion Show Performance and Memoir Release

In September 2012, Cyndi Lauper performed at Betsey Johnson's fashion show and released her New York Times best-selling memoir.

July 2015: Psoriasis Awareness Campaign

In July 2015, Cyndi Lauper promoted her work with Novartis and the National Psoriasis Foundation on The Today Show, discussing her own experience with psoriasis.

October 2016: Son's Opening Act on Detour Tour

In October 2016, Cyndi Lauper's son, Dex Lauper, was the opening act for her Scottsdale, Arizona and Las Vegas, Nevada dates on her Detour Tour.

2019: Commencement Address and Honorary Degree

In 2019, Cyndi Lauper gave the commencement address at Northern Vermont University – Johnson, and received an honorary degree of Doctor of Letters.

December 2022: Lauper Performs at White House Celebration

In December 2022, Cyndi Lauper and Alex Nolan performed "True Colors" at a White House celebration where President Joe Biden signed the Respect for Marriage Act into law, providing federal recognition to same-sex marriages.