Cyndi Lauper felt “embarrassed” to work in retail after starring in Blue Angel.
The 73-year-old singer featured in the band Blue Angel during her younger years, and Cyndi has recalled working in the retail industry before rising to fame as a solo singer.
Cyndi – who was hired by Laura Wills, the owner of the New York vintage shop Screaming Mimi’s – told People: “I used to shop there when I was in Blue Angel, my first recording band. And I used to love the clothes.
“And then, one day, when Blue Angel was not happening anymore, I shuddered to think it wasn’t. And a friend said, ‘Why don’t you just work at Screaming Mimi’s? You will love the clothes. You’ll love the place. You’ll love the people.'”
Although Cyndi was initially hesitant about the idea, she ultimately decided to approach Laura about a job.
The singer shared: “They hired me! It probably wasn’t the best because when other recording artists I knew came in, I would duck under the counter and hide or pick up my purse and walk around pretending I was shopping. Then, when they left, I’d be a sales girl again.”
Cyndi felt “embarrassed” to be working in retail, having previously starred in Blue Angel.
She said: “I was embarrassed because in Blue Angel, my first review, and this is why I should never read your reviews, I thought, ‘Oh, they heard me sing. They think I’m a great singer. Oh, my goodness. I’m going, I’m going.’ And then, you didn’t think it would be gone.
“So, when your peers came and you thought you were all that and then, all of a sudden, you’re not … it was hard for me. I was young.”
Ultimately, though, Cyndi decided to embrace the experience of working in a store, rather than feeling bitter.
The singer has retained a strong bond with Laura, who has helped to curate Cyndi Lauper: Suitcase of Memories, an auction that features some of her fashion and accessories.
She shared: “How many times you’re willing to get back up, wipe off the dust and move forward? I am. I’m game.
“So, all of that stuff is in this show, and it was an opportunity to create again with my colleagues that I used to work for and that worked with me.”