Cyndi Lauper Sings ‘Time After Time’ With Sam Smith, Clears Madison Square Garden of ‘Bad Energy’ During Farewell Tour

 

Cyndi Lauper: Icon and Advocate for Equality

Cyndi Lauper's Farewell Tour lights up Madison Square Garden with iconic hits and inspiring messages on equality. A legendary night from an icon of music and advocacy.

From her career-launching hit "Girls Just Want to Have Fun" to her recent social and political activism, Cyndi Lauper has consistently used her platform to promote equality. Known for her unabashed commitment to women’s rights and LGBTQ advocacy, Lauper’s farewell tour is both a celebration of her musical legacy and a powerful message about the importance of fundamental rights.

"It’s about time [women] start stepping forward and voting for ourselves," Lauper said, addressing the crowd. "We need equality – and I ain’t going back."

An Unforgettable Farewell Tour at Madison Square Garden

The energy was palpable as Lauper took the stage at MSG, where fans of all ages came together to celebrate her legacy. At 71, Lauper’s voice is as powerful as ever, filling the arena with her classic hits like "She Bop" and "I Drove All Night." The nostalgic arrangements, courtesy of her longtime musical director William Wittman, transported fans back to the vibrant sounds of the '80s with a refreshing new wave punch.

Setlist Highlights:

1. Girls Just Want to Have Fun – An anthem that set the tone for an evening filled with empowerment.
2. She Bop – Lauper performed with characteristic gusto, showcasing her distinctive vocal style.
3. I Drove All Night – A fan favorite that had the crowd on its feet.
4. True Colors – An emotional, stripped-back performance that resonated deeply with fans.
5. Time After Time – Featuring surprise guest Sam Smith, who joined Lauper for a touching duet.

Powerful Performances and Heartfelt Messages

Lauper’s farewell show went beyond music; it was a rallying cry for change. Between songs, she shared personal anecdotes and called for action on key social issues. Highlighting the importance of equality, Lauper also brought attention to her Girls Just Want to Have Fundamental Rights Fund, with proceeds from the evening’s merch sales going toward women’s healthcare, cancer screenings, and safe, legal abortion access.

"We need a lot of love here tonight to dissipate a lot of the hate that was here," she added, an indirect reference to recent political events at MSG.

Lauper's Advocacy for Women’s and LGBTQ Rights

Throughout her career, Lauper has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ rights and women’s issues, using her influence to champion causes that align with her values. Her MSG performance was no exception, with Lauper taking time between songs to share poignant messages on reproductive rights, gender equality, and the power of voting. Her remarks were met with cheers, signaling the audience’s support for her message.

A Pioneering Voice in LGBTQ Rights

Lauper has long been an icon in the LGBTQ community, founding the True Colors Fund, which focuses on LGBTQ youth homelessness. Her work as an activist has cemented her status as more than just a musical icon but as a voice for the marginalized.

A Musical Legacy That Transcends Generations

Cyndi Lauper’s impact goes far beyond her chart-topping hits. With a Grammy, an Emmy, and a Tony Award under her belt, she has proven herself as one of the most versatile artists in music history. Her farewell concert is a reminder of how Lauper’s work has spanned music, film, and activism, leaving a lasting legacy.

Her closing performance of "Girls Just Want to Have Fun" brought the evening full circle. In a red polka-dot ensemble, Lauper delivered a final rousing performance that brought the entire crowd to their feet. She added a timely twist to the song’s lyrics: “Everyone wants to have fundamental rights,” prompting fans to sing along with new meaning.

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Closing Thoughts: Cyndi Lauper's Lasting Legacy

Cyndi Lauper’s Girls Just Wanna Have Fun Farewell Tour at Madison Square Garden was not just a concert but a testament to the enduring power of music and advocacy. Her commitment to women's and LGBTQ rights, combined with her iconic music, has left an indelible mark on fans and the industry alike. As she steps away from the stage, Lauper’s legacy as an artist and activist remains firmly intact, a beacon of hope and resilience for generations to come.