The world is mourning the death of Tina Turner, known globally as the Queen of Rock 'n' Roll. Turner, whose illustrious career spanned decades and gifted the world with an array of hits like "Proud Mary" and "Private Dancer," has passed away at the age of 83.
An Instagram post from Turner's official account announced the sad news. "It is with deep sorrow that we confirm Tina Turner's death. Her music and vibrant passion for life captured millions of hearts worldwide and sparked a new generation of future stars," the statement said, extending heartfelt condolences to her family. "We bid farewell to a dear friend whose music will continue to echo."
Turner, a solo artist inducted into the Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame in 2021, saw her records sell over 100 million copies worldwide, with chart-topping hits like "The Best" and "What's Love Got to Do With It" propelling her career.
The Grammy-laden singer, well-known for her transformative journey, initially disliked the latter song, as she confessed in her 2021 documentary "Tina." But eventually, she made the song her own, and it kick-started her career revival in the 1980s, making her the oldest solo female artist to reach No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Born Anna Mae Bullock in 1939, Turner found her humble beginnings picking cotton and singing in a Tennessee church. She launched her career in the late '50s, joining Ike Turner's Kings of Rhythm, before rising to fame as part of the Ike & Tina Turner Revue. However, Tina's personal life was marred by Ike's abusive behavior, a grim reality she revealed in her memoir, "I, Tina: My Life Story."
Turner later fled from Ike and secured a fresh start, focusing on her solo career. She married German music executive Erwin Bach in 2013, who donated his kidney when Turner battled kidney disease.
Over the years, Turner worked with a bevy of artists like David Bowie and Mick Jagger. She also made memorable performances, notably her duet with Jagger at the 1985 Live Aid concert. Turner's final curtain call came in 2009 with her "Tina! 50th Anniversary Tour."
Despite health struggles in her later years, Turner maintained her resilience and optimism. When asked by Oprah Winfrey about her legacy, Turner stated, "My legacy is a person that strived for wanting it better and got it." She shared similar sentiments with British Vogue last month, encouraging her younger self to "stay strong and continue wanting more and fighting for it all!"
In remembrance, fans worldwide will celebrate the legacy of Tina Turner - a woman whose music, resilience, and unmatched spirit will continue to inspire generations.
