“Girls Just Want to Have Fun” is a song by American singer Cyndi Lauper, released in October 1983 with “Right Track Wrong Train” on the B-side as the lead single from her debut album, “She’s So Unusual.” The song became an anthem of female empowerment and one of Lauper’s signature hits, helping to establish her as a major pop star in the 1980s.
“Girls Just Want to Have Fun” was written by Robert Hazard, who recorded a demo in 1979. but it was Cyndi Lauper’s version that gained widespread popularity. Lauper’s interpretation of the song transformed it into a celebration of female independence and joy. She infused the song with her unique personality, quirky style, and vibrant energy, making it her own.
The song’s lyrics convey a message of fun, freedom, and female empowerment. It celebrates the desire of women to enjoy life and have fun without being constrained by societal expectations or stereotypes. The chorus, with its infectious repetition of the title, emphasizes the carefree and joyful spirit that the song embodies.
The song was a commercial success, reaching number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and number 1 in several other countries, including Canada and Australia. It also performed well in the UK, peaking at number 2 on the Singles Chart. The success of “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” helped drive the sales of Lauper’s debut album, which went on to become multi-platinum.
The music video for “Girls Just Want to Have Fun,” directed by Edd Griles, became iconic for its colorful and whimsical visuals. The video features Lauper and her friends engaging in various fun activities, defying conventional gender roles and societal expectations. The inclusion of Lauper’s real-life mother, brother, and friends added a personal touch to the video. The video’s playful and rebellious spirit resonated with audiences and played a significant role in the song’s popularity.