About the song
“Time After Time” by Cyndi Lauper is one of the most heartfelt and enduring ballads of the 1980s. Released in 1984 as the second single from her debut album She’s So Unusual, the song quickly became a global hit and established Lauper as a powerful voice in pop music. Co-written by Lauper and Rob Hyman of The Hooters, “Time After Time” is a song about unconditional love and loyalty, with a tender message that resonates across generations.
The song’s gentle, emotional melody, paired with Lauper’s expressive and slightly vulnerable vocals, created a perfect backdrop for its touching lyrics. “Time After Time” reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, making it Lauper’s first chart-topping single. The song also performed exceptionally well internationally, charting in the top 10 in several countries, including the UK and Canada.
Part of what makes “Time After Time” so special is its simplicity—both in its lyrical content and its stripped-back arrangement. Lauper sings of standing by someone no matter the challenges they face, with lines like “If you fall, I will catch you, I’ll be waiting, time after time” offering a promise of unwavering support. This sincerity has helped the song remain relevant for decades, and it has been covered by many artists over the years.
“Time After Time” became one of Lauper’s most iconic songs, often cited as a highlight in her illustrious career. It also helped solidify her status as more than just a pop star known for quirky hits—she proved she could deliver deeply emotional, timeless music that continues to touch hearts.