In the 1980s, Cyndi Lauper and Madonna were often seen as fierce competitors as they both soared to fame. Recently, Cyndi Lauper has opened up about this perceived rivalry, expressing her sadness over the situation. She admitted that she didn’t think Madonna, now 65, liked her very much during those years.
At 70, Lauper reflected on how she even considered Madonna’s style to avoid being compared to her. She shared with E! News, “Isn’t it sad that there can only be room for one? I didn’t like it.” When asked if she ever discussed her feelings with Madonna, Lauper suggested it wouldn’t have made a difference, saying, “Nah, I didn’t think she liked me that much.”
Lauper described the rumored feud as “sad” and revealed that she took the rivalry into account when making fashion choices. She recalled, “See, my hair at that point, Madonna had blonde hair. I said, ‘OK doll, I’ll just put a black spot here so they know the difference between the two of us.'”
The “Time After Time” singer also expressed regret over not forming a friendship with Madonna. She told the New York Times, “It was a shame. I would have liked to have a friend.” Lauper likened the situation to comparing “apples and oranges,” emphasizing the unfairness of being made to choose between them.
As Lauper prepares for her farewell tour across North America, she aims to end her career on a high note. She stated, “I don’t think I can perform the way I want to in a couple of years. I want to be strong.” Her preparations include yoga, weight exercises, healthy eating, physical therapy, and vocal coaching four days a week.
Despite their differences, Lauper has previously credited Madonna for inspiring her early singing career. During an appearance on The Project in 2016, she mentioned that she held Madonna, Prince, and Boy George in high regard. She even joked about Madonna being her “evil cousin” but praised her for the impact of “Like A Prayer.”
Lauper also revealed that she has been mistaken for Madonna on several occasions. She humorously admitted that she sometimes signed autographs as Madonna to avoid correcting fans. “It happens to me once in a while. I just sign Madonna. I don’t care and as long as I don’t talk I get away with it,” she shared on The Graham Norton Show.
In 2017, Lauper criticized Madonna’s profanity-laced speech at the Women’s March, feeling that it didn’t serve their larger vision. However, she acknowledged that Madonna’s attendance was important. “I was glad that she went,” Lauper said on Watch What Happens Live. “I think it happens a lot when you are really jacked up, feeling your emotions. I don’t think it served our purpose because anger is not better than clarity and humanity.”
Despite their past tensions, Lauper has always recognized Madonna’s influence on her career. She fondly recalled how “Like A Prayer” resonated with her as a Catholic schoolgirl. “She was a hero, right? She got everyone upset. That was so good. Right?” Lauper remarked.
As Lauper embarks on her final tour, she reflects on the past with a mix of nostalgia and regret. The rivalry with Madonna may have been a significant part of her journey, but Lauper’s legacy as a music icon remains strong. Her farewell tour promises to be a celebration of her enduring talent and resilience.
