By Isabelle Wilson-
Tina Turner, one of the greatest rock’n ’roll singers of all time died “peacefully” at her home in Kusnacht near Zurich on Wednesday (24 May), after a long illness caused by intestinal cancer, her publicist said in a statement.
Turner lived with her German music executive husband and longtime partner Erwin Bach in Chateau Algonquin, a magnificent estate overlooking Lake Zürich that the couple were reportedly renting in Switzerland.
Tributes poured out to the legendary singer who lost her battle to intestinal cancer.
Beyonce, Oprah Winfrey, the Obamas and the Bidens, were amongst those who paid tribute to her following news of her death.
Beyoncé described her as the “epitome of passion and power”, while Sir Mick Jagger called her a “wonderful friend” and “enormously talented” performer.
Turner was also praised by Mariah Carey and Oprah Winfrey as a “survivor” who overcame years of domestic abuse.
The Obamas praised her for “singing her truth through joy and pain”.
U.S president Joe Biden hailed her ”once in a life time talent”.
Tina Turner is a name that resonates with power, resilience, and musical brilliance. Throughout her extraordinary career spanning several decades, she has left an indelible impact on the music industry, popular culture, and the lives of millions of fans worldwide.
From her electrifying performances to her personal triumphs, Tina Turner has become an iconic figure, breaking barriers and inspiring generations. In this article, we delve into the profound impact of Tina Turner’s career, exploring her musical achievements, cultural influence, and her role as a symbol of strength and empowerment.
Musical Achievements
Tina Turner’s musical accomplishments are nothing short of remarkable.
She consistently pushed boundaries and redefined genres. With her signature raspy voice, powerful stage presence, and dynamic performances, Turner captivated audiences around the world. Her chart-topping hits such as “Proud Mary,” “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” and “Simply the Best” became anthems of empowerment, resilience, and liberation. Turner’s music effortlessly blended rock, soul, pop, and R&B, creating a unique sound that transcended genres and appealed to a diverse range of listeners.
Cultural Influence and Empowerment
Beyond her musical contributions, Tina Turner’s career has had a profound impact on popular culture and the empowerment of women. Turner’s journey from a tumultuous personal life to reclaiming her independence and finding immense success resonated with people from all walks of life. She became a symbol of resilience and empowerment, inspiring individuals to overcome adversity and forge their own paths to success. Her dynamic stage presence, captivating style, and fierce determination challenged societal norms, breaking stereotypes and paving the way for future female artists.
Turner’s influence extended to the fashion industry as well. Her bold, glamorous stage outfits and iconic hairstyles set trends and established her as a fashion icon. Her fearless approach to style encouraged self-expression and individuality, empowering women to embrace their unique beauty and celebrate their identities.
Social Impact and Activism
Tina Turner’s career also left a significant impact on social issues and activism. Throughout her life, she openly discussed her experiences with domestic abuse, serving as an advocate for survivors and raising awareness about this pressing issue. Turner’s willingness to share her story gave voice to countless individuals who had experienced similar hardships, fostering dialogue and promoting change.
She spoke of being subjected to violence by her ex husband Tina Turner, whom she said repeatedly abused her physically.
“I was insanely afraid of that man,” she told People magazine in 1981, revealing the painful reality behind the hugely successful musical duo.
Tina’s description of their marriage included being made to watch a live sex show in a brothel on their wedding night, and being beaten with a shoe stretcher while she was pregnant.
She also spoke about Ike throwing scalding coffee at her, and of being brutalised with a coat hanger. In 1968, she tried to take her own life.
“I was afraid to put it out [talk about the abuse] because of what I would get from Ike,” she told journalist Carl Arrington.
Ike Turner, who died in 2007, always strenuously denied his ex-wife’s claims that he abused her, and expressed frustration that he had been demonised in the media.
However, the late star’s version of events in the more credible one, as abusers never openly admit to their criminal acts of violence.
Tina Turner overcame abuse in the hands of violent Ike Turner Image: GETTY IMAGES
Additionally, Turner used her platform to support various causes, including children’s rights, HIV/AIDS awareness, and racial equality. Through benefit concerts, collaborations with charitable organizations, and her own philanthropic efforts, she demonstrated a deep commitment to making a positive impact on society.
Legacy and Influence on Future Artists
Tina Turner’s influence reverberates in the work of numerous artists who have followed in her footsteps. Her electrifying stage presence, soulful voice, and powerful performances have inspired generations of musicians. Artists like Beyoncé, Alicia Keys, and Jennifer Hudson have acknowledged Turner as a significant influence on their careers, embodying her spirit of empowerment, resilience, and musical excellence.
Moreover, Turner’s story has been immortalized in popular culture through the critically acclaimed biographical film “What’s Love Got to Do with It” (1993), which introduced her life and struggles to a new generation of viewers. This further solidified her status as an iconic figure and introduced her music to younger audiences.
Her career had a profound and enduring impact on the music industry, popular culture, and society as a whole. Her immense talent, resilience, and determination propelled her to great heights, inspiring countless individuals to overcome adversity and embrace their own strength.