Rock legend Tina Turner, known for her powerful vocals and iconic hits such as “Proud Mary” and “The Best,” has passed away at the age of 83. Her publicist, Bernard Doherty, confirmed that she died peacefully in her home in Küsnacht, near Zurich, Switzerland.
Born Anna Mae Bullock in Nutbush, Tennessee, Tina Turner had a remarkable career spanning over six decades. The US-Swiss singer was the recipient of eight Grammy Awards and was honored with stars on both the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the St. Louis Walk of Fame.
Turner’s turbulent life and tumultuous relationship with Ike Turner were chronicled in her autobiography, “I, Tina,” which was adapted into the acclaimed film “What’s Love Got To Do With It” in 1993.
Often referred to as the Queen of Rock and Roll, Turner found love again with her long-time German partner, music executive Erwin Bach. The couple tied the knot in a Swiss civil ceremony in 2013 and had been residing in Switzerland since 1994. Prior to her marriage to Erwin Bach, Tina Turner was married to musician Ike Turner from 1962 to 1978.
In her 1986 book, Turner revealed the harrowing abuse she endured during her marriage to Ike, including a broken nose. Ike Turner passed away in December 2007, and Tina’s spokeswoman stated that she had no contact with him for 35 years.
In recent years, Tina Turner faced health challenges, including a diagnosis of intestinal cancer in 2016 and a kidney transplant in 2017. Her autobiography “Tina Turner: My Love Story,” published in 2018, revealed that Erwin Bach had saved her life by donating one of his kidneys.
Throughout her illustrious career, Turner delivered unforgettable musical performances and released numerous chart-topping hits. Her discography includes iconic songs like the James Bond theme “GoldenEye,” “We Don’t Need Another Hero (Thunderdome),” “What’s Love Got to Do With It,” “Private Dancer,” and many more.
Tina Turner’s influence extended beyond her solo work. She collaborated with renowned artists such as Beyoncé, David Bowie, and Sir Mick Jagger. Her electrifying duet with Beyoncé on “Proud Mary” at the Grammys in 2008 showcased their powerful voices and synchronized choreography.
Australian audiences also embraced Tina Turner, who appeared in the film “Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome” alongside Mel Gibson. Her song “We Don’t Need Another Hero” from the film became a hit. Additionally, her song “Nutbush City Limits” gained popularity in Australia, with the accompanying dance becoming a cultural phenomenon.
In 2018, the musical “Tina – The Tina Turner Musical” premiered on London’s West End, celebrating her life and music. In 2021, she sold the rights to her back catalog to BMG, marking a significant milestone in her career.
Tina Turner’s indelible mark on the music industry, her enduring hits, and her unforgettable performances will continue to inspire generations to come. She leaves behind a legacy of unparalleled talent and resilience, cementing her status as a true rock legend.
