Raising a Star: Cyndi Lauper's Dedication to Her Son

There’s no denying Cyndi Lauper’s place in music history, but when it comes to her role as a mom, she’s just as committed and passionate. The legendary singer, known for hits like "Girls Just Want to Have Fun" and "Time After Time," has always put her only child, Declyn Wallace Thornton Lauper (better known as Dex), front and center. As Dex grows into his own identity, he’s clearly taking cues from his famous mom, carving out a path in the world of music.

Family Ties: Cyndi and David Thornton's Journey

Cyndi shares her life with her long-time husband, David Thornton, an actor best known for his role in "Home Alone 3." The couple tied the knot in 1991, and their family expanded six years later when Cyndi gave birth to Dex in 1997. Together, they’ve navigated the ups and downs of raising a child in the spotlight while maintaining a strong, loving relationship. It’s a testament to their partnership that they’ve managed to keep their family life grounded despite their high-profile careers.

Striking a Balance: Career vs. Parenthood

When Dex was young, Cyndi had a lot on her plate—balancing herGrammy-winning music career with the responsibilities of motherhood. It wasn’t always easy, but she made it clear that her family came first. While her career never slowed down, Cyndi admitted that she and David once discussed the possibility of her stepping back from the limelight to focus on Dex. “We talked about, ‘When you’re done, you’re done. You don’t have to do anymore,’” Cyndi revealed in an interview with ABC News. “We’re a couple that’s trying to raise a kid and trying to still be together.”

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Despite the demands of her career, Cyndi was determined to be a “real” parent. “I don’t want to be a fake parent,” she emphasized. “I don’t want to be a fake singer. I don’t want to be a fake writer. I don’t want to be fake anything. I want to be the real thing!” Her commitment to authenticity shines through in everything she does, whether she’s on stage or at home with her family.

Growing Up in the Spotlight

From the start, Cyndi wanted Dex to experience the world she loves so much. She introduced him to the glitz and glamour of Hollywood early on, taking him along to high-profile events and performances. One memorable moment came in 2010 when the two attended the Celebrity Apprentice season 3 finale afterparty, both beaming with pride. Dex also joined his mom for her 8th Annual Home for the Holidays benefit concert in 2013, and more recently, they made waves at the Video Music Awards in September 2021. These experiences have undoubtedly shaped Dex’s outlook and inspired his own aspirations.

Dex’s Musical Path: Following in Mom’s Footsteps

With a mom who’s one of the most iconic singers in music history, it’s no surprise that Dex has chosen to pursue a career in music. Cyndi has been more than happy to share her knowledge and experience with her son, teaching him everything she knows about being a music superstar. But she’s quick to credit her husband, David, for his unwavering support. “All I can say is that he is my best friend, he’s wildly creative, and I just wanted to share my whole life with him,” Cyndi told Closer in December 2018. “That’s what’s happened.”

Through it all, Cyndi remains grateful for the strong bond she shares with her family. Her dedication to Dex and David proves that it’s possible to excel in your career while staying true to your values and loved ones. As Dex continues to grow and make his mark in the world, there’s no doubt that he’s carrying on the legacy of his incredible mom.

Ready to learn more about Cyndi’s incredible journey as a mom and musician? Keep scrolling for the full story!