Cynthia Herrman is one half of the longtime hair-cutting duo that makes up Paula’s Barber Shop in Ypsilanti’s Depot Town, but for a long time, she led a double life. On nights and weekends, Herrman found a home on stage as a lead vocalist or bass guitarist.
A former member of 25 different rock bands, Herrman has been a barber for 45 years, and all that time she continued performing, often traveling to shows outside Michigan, even as she fought losing her voice during her career. Her stage name was Sinderella, and although Herrman said she didn't earn as much money as she had hoped in the music business, the run was a lot of fun while it lasted.
Her job at Paula's is just as fulfilling, Herrman said. She explained that she loves the work and her clients and has met many friends while making people look their best.
Q: Among all those bands you have been in, which one is your favorite?
A: My favorite is Glitter Trash. I had a huge transgender singer who looked like me, so everyone thought we were sisters. And we were very wild, very animated and very theatrical. I love being in bands where I can dress up wildly.
Q: While you were in Glitter Trash, where did you have your best performances?
A: I would say in Medicine Bow, Wyoming, in the middle of nowhere, where there was a population of 600 people. So, bands came from all over Wyoming, and we came from Detroit. Everyone there treated us like we were the Rolling Stones.
Q: How did you first get to meet Paula?
A: We went to barber school together 43 years ago and graduated in 1980, then ended up coincidentally working together in the same shop.
Q: What was the last band you played in before becoming a full-time barber?
A: Well, I’ve been a musician ever since I was little, so I was always in bands in Detroit. I was with a band called Stormy Jane, and I was always cutting hair. So, I did both simultaneously. I never quit playing music.
Q: What are some good moments and memories from working at Paula’s Barber Shop?
A: Actually, every day is an adventure in this barber shop. Every day I meet new people from all over the world because of the university and the hospitals. It is very transient. So, every day is a magical moment meeting new people.
Q: What are some of your favorite bands that you listen to?
A: The New York Dolls, Iggy Pop, and Glitter Trash. Glitter Trash is on every streaming app, and my favorite songs are "18 Wheel Murder Machine" and "I Need Sex."
Paula’s Barber Shop in Ypsilanti’s Depot Town is open Monday through Saturday. Herrman’s album that she performed with the band Glitter Trash, a 2011 project titled “Wreckage,” is currently available for streaming.
