“Cyndi embodies every quality of an artist that I admire,” she said.
“She’s a born performer and a revolutionary songwriter, a forever fashion icon, and a fierce advocate and ally. And from the very beginning, she owned every ounce of who she was.” (QNews report)
Chappell recalled winning a singing competition in her Missouri hometown at age 14 with a cover of Cyndi Lauper’s True Colors.
"My shoulders are broad enough to have the women who come after me stand on mine." — Cyndi Lauper accepts her 2025 Rock Hall Induction and gives thanks to all the women who came before her. #RockHall2025 pic.twitter.com/IKrHRSTduF
— Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (@rockhall) November 9, 2025
“That was my first time ever winning a competition for singing, and that song has been so important to me ever since,” she said.
Cyndi Lauper hugging Chappell Roan after Chappell inducted her to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame 💕 pic.twitter.com/Btwuj7G2e7
— Chappell Roan Philippines (@chappellroanPH) November 9, 2025
“True Colors has gone on to be an anthem synonymous with love and acceptance in the LGBTQ+ community and beyond, a message that still stands the test of time.”
As well as Lauper’s musical legacy, Roan also gave a shout out to her “incredible accomplishments outside of the studio” including her decades as a queer ally and advocate.
“She advocated for gay rights before the U.S. Senate. Her non-profit, True Colors United, [is] fighting to end homelessness among LGBTQ+ youth,” she said.
“She paved the way for artists like me to freely express myself.”
Following Chappell Roan’s speech, a video featuring Lady Gaga, Sam Smith, Billie Eilish and Alicia Keys played as they also shared what Cyndi Lauper’s career has meant to them over the years.
