About the song
Cyndi Lauper’s 1984 hit “Time After Time” remains one of the most beloved and timeless ballads of the 1980s. Co-written by Lauper and Rob Hyman of The Hooters, the song was featured on her debut album She’s So Unusual. While Lauper was known for her quirky, high-energy persona in songs like “Girls Just Want to Have Fun,” Time After Time revealed a more tender, vulnerable side, highlighting her versatility as an artist. The emotional depth of the song struck a chord with listeners, and it quickly became one of her signature hits.
Released as the second single from She’s So Unusual, “Time After Time” soared to the top of the Billboard Hot 100, securing Lauper her first No. 1 hit in June 1984. The song also achieved international success, charting in the top 10 in countries like Canada, Australia, and the UK. Its appeal lies in its simple yet evocative lyrics that speak to the enduring nature of love and loyalty. Lines like “If you’re lost, you can look and you will find me, time after time” convey a sense of unconditional support, making it a song that resonates deeply with people experiencing love, heartbreak, or the ups and downs of relationships.
Musically, the song is a soft, melodic ballad with a distinctive synthesizer-driven sound that defined much of the ’80s pop landscape. Lauper’s expressive vocals carry the emotional weight of the song, delivering both vulnerability and strength in equal measure. Her collaboration with Rob Hyman, who also contributed the song’s iconic harmonies and keyboard riffs, added another layer of depth to the track.
“Time After Time” has continued to endure over the decades, covered by numerous artists across genres, and featured in films, television shows, and commercials. Its universal theme of steadfast love and devotion has ensured its place as a timeless classic, appealing to multiple generations of listeners. Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or the hundredth, Time After Time captures the heart with its message of love that transcends time, making it one of the most memorable ballads of the 1980s.