**Cyndi Lauper Discusses Collaboration with Nicki Minaj Amid Changing Political Climate**
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Cyndi Lauper has recently reflected on her past collaboration with Nicki Minaj, particularly in light of the rapper’s vocal support for former President Donald Trump. Their partnership included Minaj sampling Lauper’s iconic track “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” in the song “Pink Friday Girls,” which became part of the rapper’s 2023 album. The two also performed together during Minaj’s Pink Friday 2 World Tour in early 2024.
In a candid interview with The Guardian, Lauper, 73, acknowledged the complexities of working with artists whose views may differ significantly from one’s own. “First of all, I don’t believe in cancellation,” the Grammy-winning artist stated, addressing the notion of ‘cancel culture’. She expressed pride in Minaj’s interpretation of her work. “The fact that she did ‘Girls Just Want to Have Fun’ musically — it’s a political thing anyway, babes,” Lauper noted, hinting at the broader implications of Minaj’s artistry.
The legendary singer elaborated on the themes present in her original song, stressings the importance of joy in women’s lives. “Girls just want to have fun. They’re entitled to a joyful experience in this world,” she insisted. Lauper believes that both she and Minaj have a place in the ongoing conversation about empowerment and women’s rights: “Yes, rise up and put your foot down, and she did.”
Although Lauper mentioned she was uncertain about the current direction of Minaj’s career, she maintained that artists should not be ‘cancelled’ for their political beliefs. “But I still don’t think you cancel people, because otherwise there’s no room for discussion,” she added, encouraging dialogue rather than divisiveness.
Lauper, known for her own history with Trump when she appeared on *The Celebrity Apprentice* in 2010, demonstrated an openness to collaborating with individuals across the political spectrum. “If you want people to listen to you, you need to listen to people,” Lauper advised. “If you don’t let people evolve, what are you doing?” This approach reflects her long-standing commitment to fostering understanding and discussion, even in the face of opposing viewpoints.
Recently, Minaj has been making headlines for her affiliations with the Trump administration. Notably, she was announced as a judge for an upcoming reality show competition called the Million Dollar Pitch Competition, designed to support small businesses. “This is a major, MAJOR KEY,” Minaj remarked on X (formerly Twitter) following the announcement. This endorsement has drawn mixed reactions, especially given her previous appearances at the White House and her connections with Trump’s allies.
Former President Trump himself has publicly supported Minaj, praising her talent and influence at various public events. At a Rose Garden gathering in July, he labelled Minaj a “fantastic person” and acknowledged her respected status in the entertainment industry. Such endorsements have further fuelled conversations regarding her political leanings.
In the midst of this politically charged environment, Lauper is also embracing new opportunities. She recently announced her Las Vegas residency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace, with performances scheduled for February and September 2027. Fans are eagerly looking forward to this new chapter in her career, with presale tickets already available.
As Lauper navigates her own journey within the music industry, her reflections on collaboration with Minaj reveal the complexities artists face when political affiliations come into play. Both women continue to shape the cultural landscape in their own distinctive ways, and Lauper’s willingness to engage in dialogue serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding differing perspectives in a rapidly changing world.