For Women’s History Month, we are spotlighting iconic women who’s talent impacted the history of music. Today we present: Tina Turner, Rock legend. Tina Turner was born and raised in Nashville until her grandmother passed, leaving her to move to St. louis Missouri to live with her mother. In Missouri, Turner spent a lot of time in clubs, one in which she met her (ex) husband Ike Turner who was a musician that she went on to perform at the club with (his group.) The opportunity came for Turner to sing lead while recording one of their songs and it became a hit on the charts. Together, the pair went on to release many successful singles and became known for their “electrifying stage performances.” Eventually, they gave us “Proud Mary,” which won them their first Grammy. Ike and Tina Turner’s music were hits in the U.S. and the U.K. Eventually, the two divorced in the best interest of Tina (as she suffered domestic abuse, infidelity and other disasters from their marriage,) who then began her solo career.
Tina Turner’s solo career did not pick up where she left with Ike. She was performing at lower-profile venues, and making other guest appearances to make ends meet while not achieving the same notable success. Her solo career took a turn when she came out with a remake of Al Green’s “Let’s Stay Together.” Then came “Private Dancer,” which sold more than 20 million copies worldwide and won four Grammy Awards. “What’s Love Got to Do With It,” released and became number one on the U.S. charts, earning a Grammy for Record of the Year, and living on to be an empowerment anthem. Tina Turner became known for her energetic performances, strong voice, and unique look and signature volumized, punk-styled hair. Tina Turner has done many collaborations, appearances, tours and performances, written many hits, won many awards and other great achievements that would leave us here all day. In 1991 Tina was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with Ike Turner, and in 2021 became inducted for her solo career.
Tina Turner notably has achieved way more success than we are able to write about in just one post, but to say the least, her contributions impacted our music today. We love Tina Turner!
Check out the official music video for TINA TURNER’s iconic “What’s Love Got to Do With It,” below.