RIP Tina Turner

Tina Turner, the ‘Queen of Rock and Roll,’ died on Thursday 25th May at her home in Sweden after battling a long illness. 

The US singer was one of the rock and roll legends, known for her thrilling stage performance and instantly recognisable vocals. Her spokesperson said:

“Tina Turner died peacefully at the age of 83 after a long illness in her home in Kusnacht near Zurich, Switzerland.” 

The singer was best known for her hit singles such as ‘Simply The Best’ and ‘What’s Love Got To Do With It.’  

Many big names paid their respects, including Elton John and Mick Jagger. Jagger said: “She was truly an enormously talented performer and singer. She was inspiring, funny, warm and generous. She helped me so much when I was young and I will never forget her.” 

Tina Turner first rose to fame in her 40’s when she was married to her ex-husband, Ike Turner. The duo released the popular songs ‘River Deep’ and ‘Mountain High’ together. After surviving years of domestic abuse from him, Tina’s life was made into a movie and a theatre production which is still running today.  

Her breakthrough album, ‘Private Dancer’ that was released in 1984 and after her split from Ike, sold more than 10 million copies and catapulted her to legendary status. 

Tina later married Erwin Bach, former EMI record producer, and went on to have a child with him. She was also the adoptive mother to Ike Turner’s two children from his first marriage. Sadly, she lost two of her sons, one to suicide in 2018 and one to cancer in 2022.

Tina Turner was one of the most inspirational artists of her time, becoming a beacon of hope for black singers and those who have experienced domestic abuse. Her music will forever be idolised and she will never be forgotten.