Each year, music’s biggest names come together to compete for high recognition at the Grammy Awards. But occasionally, entertainers can put aside their competitive spirits for the right cause. In January 1985, that moment came when Michael Jackson, Lionel Richie, Quincy Jones, and Michael Omartian set out to record “What Are The Word.”
The track pulled in several chart-topping musicians to lend their voices for charity. On February 16, during his appearance on JimmyKimmel Live, Richie revealed that even though the moment was magical, he did have a few regrets that night, including not including Madonna in the fold. Despite Madonna’s superstar success at the time, the team opted for Cyndi Lauper instead.
Richie went on to explain the relation behind the decision. “We had only a half a line to sing,” he said. “So, we had to have voices that people knew right away. You had to have an identifiable voice… Cyndi had that.”
In the new Netflix documentary The Greatest Night In Pop, viewers can relive the moment as footage from the star-studded recording session outlines the meticulous work that went into recording the song.
Watch the full clip above.
The Greatest Night In Pop is exclusively streaming on Netflix. Find more information here.
Cyndi Lauper, a symbol of musical innovation and a beacon for social activism, has carved a niche in the entertainment industry that transcends time. Known for her eclectic style and distinctive voice, Lauper has gifted the world with anthems of empowerment and used her platform to champion various causes. Her enduring career, marked by an array of awards and critical acclaim, has led to a net worth of $50 million as of 2024, according to Eric Singer. Lauper’s journey from the vibrant New York club scene to international superstardom encapsulates her versatility, resilience, and unwavering commitment to authenticity.
A Colorful Musical Odyssey
(MANDATORY CREDIT Koh Hasebe/Shinko Music/Getty Images) Cindi Lauper taken in a hotel room. March 1984, also Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Koh Hasebe/Shinko Music/Getty Images)
Lauper’s rise to fame in the early 1980s was propelled by her debut album, She’s So Unusual, a groundbreaking project that showcased her unique voice and innovative sound. Hits like “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” and “Time After Time” became anthems of the era, embodying the spirit of freedom and self-expression. Her ability to blend rock, pop, and new wave has kept her music fresh and relevant across decades. Lauper’s discography, adorned with Grammy Awards and multi-platinum certifications, reflects her adaptability and pioneering influence in music.
Championing Change Through Activism
NEW YORK, NY – JANUARY 28: Recording artist Cyndi Lauper attends the 60th Annual GRAMMY. Awards at Madison Square Garden on January 28, 2018 also in. New York City. (Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for NARAS)
Beyond her musical achievements, Cyndi Lauper has been a relentless advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and equality. Her philanthropic efforts, including the True Colors Fund, have made significant strides in combating homelessness among LGBTQ+ youth. Lauper’s activism extends into her art, where she has consistently used her platform to raise awareness and advocate for change. Her contributions to social causes have earned her respect and admiration well beyond her musical legacy, highlighting her role as a catalyst for progress and inclusion.
Diversifying Artistic Endeavors
WASHINGTON, DC – DECEMBER 13: White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre looks on as. Singer Cyndi Lauper speaks during the daily press briefing at the White House December 13, 2022 in. Washington, DC. Later today, President Joe Biden will sign the. Respect for Marriage Act, which will codify same-sex and interracial marriages. (Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images)
Lauper’s creativity knows no bounds. This is further evidenced by her ventures into acting, writing, and Broadway. Her successful stint on Broadway with the hit musical Kinky Boots, for which she won a Tony Award for Best Original Score, showcases her versatility as a songwriter and ability to tell compelling stories across different mediums. This artistic exploration has enriched her career and contributed to her financial success, underscoring her multifaceted talent and entrepreneurial spirit.
Cyndi Lauper’s journey from a rebellious newcomer to an esteemed legend in the music industry is a narrative of triumph. Moreover, as Lauper continues to inspire and challenge the status quo, her legacy as an artist and advocate remains indelible on the music world and the broader cultural landscape.
Today, the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame announced their next class of 2023 inductees, which includes Kate Bush, Sheryl Crow, Missy Elliott, George Michael, Willie Nelson, Rage Against The Machine, and The Spinners.
However, some might be wondering who was possibly in the running but ultimately, not selected for induction.
According to Billboard, there were fourteen total nominees, starting with The White Stripes, as it marked the band’s first year being eligible.
Instead of Rage, Uproxx had chosen Soundgarden (fronted by the late Chris Cornell) as an early inductee prediction from the ’90s rock era. Switching genres but staying in that decade, another snub included A Tribe Called Quest, having been nominated the last two years without an induction.
Other nominees who didn’t make the cut this year included Iron Maiden, Joy Division (or New Order), Warren Zevon, and Cyndi Lauper.
Last year’s HOF induction class made some headlines after Dolly Parton tried to get voters to look at other artists. “I still had this feeling that I was taking votes from someone,” Parton said in an interview last December. “I would take any country things they give me because I’d feel I’d earned any of them that I get.” She was still inducted and is now making a rock-inspired album to match.
The ceremony will be held on November 3 in Brooklyn.
Some artists covered here are Warner Music artists. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.
