True Colors

"True Colors" is the second studio album by the American singer Cyndi Lauper, released on September 15, 1986. This album came as a follow-up to Lauper's immensely successful 1983 debut, “She's So Unusual.” Here are some fascinating aspects and trivia about "True Colors":

1. Title Track Legacy: The title track, "True Colors," became one of Lauper's signature songs and a timeless anthem for self-acceptance and diversity. It was awarded the Grammy for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance in 1987 and has been covered by numerous artists over the years, highlighting its enduring impact on popular culture.

2. Diverse Musical Styles: The album showcases Lauper's versatility, branching out from the primarily pop and new wave sound of her debut to explore different genres. It incorporates elements of pop rock, reggae, and ballads, thus showcasing Lauper’s wide-ranging vocal talents.

3. Star-Studded Collaborations: "True Colors" features contributions from several high-profile musicians and producers of the time. For example, Nile Rodgers of Chic fame played guitar on the track "Iko Iko," and legendary musician Billy Joel contributed backing vocals for the song "Maybe He'll Know."

4. Visual Innovation: Cyndi Lauper is known for her distinctive, eclectic sense of style, and "True Colors" was no exception. The album's cover was photographed by Annie Leibovitz, a distinguished portrait photographer. The striking image became iconic, reflecting Lauper's ability to merge music with visual artistry.

5. Diverse Lyrical Themes: Unlike her debut centered around youthful exuberance, "True Colors" delves into more matured themes such as empathy, love loss, identity, and the struggles surrounding coming of age. Its broad thematic reach contributed to its critical acclaim and established Lauper as a sophisticated songwriter.

6. Commercial Success: The album was a commercial success, reaching number four on the Billboard 200 and being certified double platinum in the United States. It produced several hit singles, including "True Colors," "Change of Heart," and "What's Going On."

7. Enduring Influence: Beyond chart success, "True Colors" has had a lasting influence, particularly the title track. It has become an anthem for LGBTQ+ rights, bolstered by Lauper's own advocacy work, including co-founding the True Colors United organization to support homeless LGBTQ+ youth.

These elements together contributed to the album's impact and timeless appeal, cementing Cyndi Lauper's status as a pop icon and an artist with a profound cultural footprint.