In the vast landscape of music, few songs achieve the status of being universally cherished and timeless. Time After Time by Cyndi Lauper is one such gem. Its haunting melody, poignant lyrics, and the raw emotion in Lauper’s voice have made it a classic. But what’s the story behind this iconic song?
Let’s embark on a journey to uncover the making, meaning, and magic of Time After Time.
The Genesis of a Classic
The birth of Time After Time is a tale of serendipity and collaboration. Cyndi Lauper, a rising star in the early ’80s, teamed up with Rob Hyman of The Hooters. Both were navigating the tumultuous waters of their romantic relationships, and they channelled these emotions into their songwriting. The result was a track that spoke to the universality of love, longing, and loss.
Hyman recalls their initial meeting with Lauper as an encounter with someone truly “unusual” and “creative.” Their synergy was evident from the start. Introduced by producer Rick Chertoff, they began crafting what would become one of the most iconic songs of the decade.
Delving into the Lyrics
Every line in Time After Time is drenched in emotion and personal experience. Lauper’s struggles with her boyfriend and manager, David Wolff, provided a backdrop for the song’s themes. Hyman, too, brought his own experiences to the table, having recently exited a relationship.
The line “suitcase of memories” is particularly evocative. It paints a vivid picture of nostalgia, of looking back at moments frozen in time, encapsulated in memories that one carries around. This line, penned by Hyman, set the tone for the rest of the song.
The title itself has an interesting origin. A 1979 TV guide listing for a sci-fi movie named Time After Time caught Lauper’s eye. What began as a placeholder soon became integral to the song’s identity.
Real-life experiences often make for the most relatable lyrics. The verse about the ticking clock is a testament to this. Lauper’s loud alarm clock, a replacement for Wolff, became a metaphor for the relentless passage of time and the memories that echo in its wake.
The chorus, “If you’re lost, you can look, and you will find me, time after time. If you fall, I will catch you; I’ll be waiting, time after time,” speaks to the unwavering nature of true love. It’s a promise of constancy—of always being there for someone, no matter the circumstances.
The bridge, “After my picture fades and darkness has turned to gray, watching through windows, you’re wondering if I’m okay,” delves into the theme of separation and the anxiety that comes with it. It’s about the uncertainty of the future and the hope that love will endure.
Cultural Impact and Accolades
Upon its release, Time After Time soared in popularity. It wasn’t just a song; it was an anthem for anyone who had loved and lost. In June 1984, the track clinched the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Top 100 and Adult Contemporary charts. Its success wasn’t limited to the U.S.; it resonated globally, reaching No. 3 in the U.K. The song’s acclaim was further solidified with a nomination for Song of the Year at the 1985 Grammy Awards.
The song has been referenced in various movies, TV shows, and books, showcasing its lasting impact on popular culture. Its themes of love, longing, and the passage of time resonate with audiences of all ages, making it a staple in the annals of music history.
The Visual Narrative: The Music Video
Music videos play a pivotal role in how a song is perceived. The video for Time After Time is a narrative masterpiece. Directed by Edd Griles, it tells the story of a young woman, played by Lauper, grappling with the decision to leave her lover. The video is enriched with personal touches. Lauper’s real-life boyfriend, Wolff, her mother, and her brother all make appearances. Wrestling star Captain Lou Albano’s presence adds a unique flavour to the narrative.
About making the video for the song, Lauper recalled,
“A lot of people I knew were in the song’s music video. My mom plays my mom, and my brother is sleeping on a bench at the train station. I wanted the video to be like a picture book for me later. The tear that rolls down my cheek at the end on the train was real. I didn’t think I could do it, since I wasn’t a trained actress. But when I picked up the duffel bag to get on the train, I choked up.“
The choice of locations, from Tom’s Diner in Roxbury, NY, to Betty’s Department Store in Wharton, NJ, adds authenticity to the video. It’s a visual journey that complements the song’s emotional depth.
The Song’s Legacy and Its Many Avatars
Time After Time has transcended its original form. Over the decades, it has been reimagined by numerous artists across genres. From Barry Manilow’s crooning to Willie Nelson’s country rendition, the song has donned many avatars. Each cover is a testament to the song’s versatility and universal appeal.
Interpreting the Magic
Rob Hyman views Time After Time as a song shrouded in mystery. It’s neither overtly happy nor melancholic. It treads the fine line between hope and despair, making it relatable to anyone who has experienced the complexities of love.
For Lauper, the song holds spiritual significance. It’s a testament to enduring love, emphasising the idea that true love remains steadfast, come what may.
In Conclusion: The Timelessness of Time After Time
Time After Time is more than just a song. It’s a narrative, an emotion, and a piece of art that has stood the test of time. Its lyrics, drawn from personal experiences, resonate universally. Its melody lingers long after the song has ended. In a world where music is constantly evolving, Time After Time remains a timeless classic, a testament to the power of genuine emotion and authentic storytelling.
Cyndi Lauper Time After Time Lyrics
Verse 1
Lyin’ in my bed, I hear the clock tick and think of you
Caught up in circles, confusion is nothing new
Flashback, warm nights almost left behind
Suitcase of memories
Time after
Verse 2
Sometimes you picture me, I’m walkin’ too far ahead
You’re callin’ to me, I can’t hear what you’ve said
Then you say, “Go slow”, I fall behind
The second hand unwinds
Chorus
If you’re lost, you can look and you will find me
Time after time
If you fall, I will catch you, I’ll be waiting
Time after time
If you’re lost, you can look and you will find me
Time after time
If you fall, I will catch you, (I’ll be waiting) I will be waiting
Time after time
Verse 3
After my picture fades and darkness has turned to gray
Watchin’ through windows, you’re wondering if I’m okay
Secrets stolen from deep inside
The drum beats out of time
Chorus
If you’re lost, you can look and you will find me
Time after time
If you fall, I will catch you, I’ll be waiting
Time after time
Bridge
You say, “Go slow”, I fall behind
The second hand unwinds
Chorus
If you’re lost, you can look and you will find me
Time after time
If you fall, I will catch you, I’ll be waiting
Time after time
If you’re lost, you can look and you will find me
Time after time
If you fall, I will catch you, (I’ll be waiting) I will be waiting
Time after time
Outro
Time after time
Time after time
Time after time
Time after time
Time after time
Time after time
Time after
Time
