Cyndi Lauper Recalls Being Told to ‘Write a Song About Female Masturbation’ and Ensuring the Lyrics Weren’t ‘Obvious’

Cyndi Lauper Recalls Unconventional Inspiration Behind Hit Song

Cyndi Lauper, the iconic Grammy winner, recently delved into the unconventional inspiration behind her controversial 1984 hit “She Bop” in a candid interview with The Independent. The 71-year-old singer shared how she was urged to “write a song about female masturbation” by her collaborator, Steve Lunt. Lauper’s bold creativity shines as she navigated creating playful yet subtle lyrics for the track to maintain a radio-friendly appeal.

The track, which later landed on the Parents Music Resource Center’s “Filthy 15” list for its supposedly “profane or sexually explicit” nature, showcased Lauper’s ability to tackle taboo subjects with a unique twist. Despite the initial shock factor, the singer aimed to craft a song that adults could interpret with a knowing smile while ensuring that younger listeners could simply enjoy it as a catchy tune about dancing.

Incorporating witty lines like “I better get a chaperone / Because I can’t stop messin’ with the danger zone,” Lauper cleverly balanced risqué themes with an upbeat melody. The success of “She Bop” was evident as it climbed to No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, becoming Lauper’s third consecutive top-5 hit following her earlier successes with “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” and “Time After Time.”

Despite the track facing backlash and criticism for its perceived explicit content, Lauper revealed that her record label stood by her decision to tackle the subject matter. She expressed her eagerness to shed light on topics that were often shied away from in mainstream discussions, emphasising the importance of pushing boundaries and initiating conversations around societal taboos.

Lauper’s fearless approach to addressing controversial themes in her music has solidified her status as a trailblazer in the industry. The singer’s willingness to challenge norms and spark dialogue through her art has garnered both admiration and scrutiny, underscoring her commitment to artistic integrity and freedom of expression.

As Lauper embarks on her Girls Just Wanna Have Fun Farewell Tour, celebrating her enduring legacy with audiences worldwide, she remains dedicated to pushing creative boundaries and connecting with fans through her music. Despite bidding adieu to major arena shows, Lauper assures fans that her passion for performing continues unabated, hinting at more musical adventures in the years to come.

With a career spanning decades, Cyndi Lauper’s boldness and innovation continue to inspire audiences and fellow artists alike. Her fearless spirit and unapologetic approach to addressing societal norms through music serve as a powerful reminder of the impact of art in sparking meaningful conversations and challenging perceptions.

In a world where conformity often reigns, Cyndi Lauper’s pioneering spirit and unwavering authenticity stand as a testament to the transformative power of music in shaping cultural narratives and fostering inclusivity. As she continues to captivate audiences with her timeless hits and boundary-pushing creativity, Lauper’s influence on the music industry remains as vibrant and relevant as ever.