About the song
“Time After Time” is one of Cyndi Lauper’s most beloved and enduring songs, released in 1983 as the second single from her debut album She’s So Unusual. Co-written by Lauper and Rob Hyman of The Hooters, the song showcases a softer, more emotional side of Lauper, contrasting with the more playful and quirky image she had cultivated with hits like “Girls Just Want to Have Fun.” With its tender lyrics and gentle melody, “Time After Time” is a ballad about unconditional love, support, and loyalty, themes that have resonated deeply with audiences for decades.
The song’s title was inspired by a 1979 science fiction movie of the same name, though the lyrics tell a more intimate story of two people who stand by each other through difficult times. Lauper’s clear, emotive vocals bring a vulnerability to the song, making it a heartfelt anthem for anyone who has ever relied on love to get through tough moments.
Commercially, “Time After Time” was a huge success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in June 1984, becoming Lauper’s first No. 1 hit in the U.S. The song also charted internationally, landing in the top 10 in countries such as the U.K., Canada, and Australia. It has since become one of Lauper’s signature songs and has been covered by numerous artists over the years, further cementing its place in pop culture history.
“Time After Time” helped solidify Cyndi Lauper as not just a fun, eccentric pop star but also a versatile artist capable of deep emotional expression. Its timeless message of loyalty and love continues to resonate with listeners, making it one of the most cherished songs of the 1980s.