ON THIS DAY: 27 May 2008 – Cyndi Lauper’s ‘Bring Ya to the Brink’, A Dazzling Dancefloor Reinvention

In 2008, Cyndi Lauper, the ever-evolving pop icon, unveiled Bring Ya to the Brink, her tenth studio album. This record marked a bold departure from her previous work, embracing the pulsating rhythms of dance and electronic music. Collaborating with a cadre of renowned producers, Lauper crafted an album that seamlessly blended her distinctive voice with contemporary beats, reaffirming her status as a versatile and fearless artist.

A Global Journey into Dance Music

To infuse Bring Ya to the Brink with authentic dance energy, Lauper embarked on a creative journey across the globe. She collaborated with an eclectic mix of producers, including Basement Jaxx, Richard Morel, Max Martin, and Kleerup. These partnerships resulted in a vibrant tapestry of sounds, from Eurodisco to deep house, reflecting Lauper’s commitment to exploring new musical landscapes .

Critical Acclaim and Grammy Recognition

The album’s innovative approach did not go unnoticed. Bring Ya to the Brink received a nomination for Best Dance/Electronica Album at the 51st Annual Grammy Awards, highlighting Lauper’s successful foray into the dance genre. Critics praised the album for its cohesive production and Lauper’s dynamic vocal performances, noting that it stood as one of her strongest works in years.

Chart Performance and Singles

Bring Ya to the Brink debuted at number 41 on the Billboard 200, selling 12,000 copies in its first week . The album spawned several singles:

• ‘Same Ol’ Story’: Released on May 6, 2008, this track showcased Lauper’s ability to blend storytelling with danceable beats.
• ‘Into the Nightlife’: Co-written with Max Martin, this single became a club favorite, peaking at number one on the US Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart .
• ‘Set Your Heart’: Released as a promotional single in Japan, it received considerable airplay and peaked at number 11 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100 Singles .

Album Track List

1. High and Mighty
2. Into the Nightlife
3. Rocking Chair
4. Echo
5. Lyfe
6. Same Ol’ Story
7. Raging Storm
8. Lay Me Down
9. Give It Up
10. Set Your Heart
11. Grab a Hold
12. Rain on Me

Note: The Japanese edition includes two bonus tracks:

13. Got Candy
14. Can’t Breathe

A Legacy of Reinvention

Bring Ya to the Brink stands as a testament to Cyndi Lauper’s enduring ability to reinvent herself. By embracing the dance genre, she not only expanded her musical repertoire but also connected with a new generation of listeners. The album’s fusion of heartfelt lyrics and infectious beats ensures its place as a standout entry in Lauper’s diverse discography.