Tina Turner came a long way from being smalltown singing prodigy Anna Mae Bullock to finding fame alongside Ike Turner, and, after escaping his abusive clutches, become one of the biggest solo stars of all-time. The ‘Proud Mary’ songstress beat all the odds to become the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll but her incredible story of courage and talent came to an end on May 24 when she died at the age of 83. Since news of her passing pop stars, presidents and more have all paid tribute to this music icon.
Dionne Warwick –
The ‘I’ll Never Fall in Love Again’ songstress is determined to remember Tina Turner as an “eternal ball of energy.
She said: “Another long-time friend has made her transition. Not only will I miss that eternal ball of energy named Tina Turner but the entire world will also find this void in their lives. My condolences to her husband and other members of her family. Rest in peace my friend!”
Oprah Winfrey
After learning of Tina’s passing, Oprah recalled that the ‘Proud Mary’ singer – who survived domestic abuse at the hands of ex-husband Ike Turner – was “not afraid of death”.
Oprah said: “Once she claimed her freedom from years of domestic abuse, her life became a clarion call for triumph.
“I’m grateful for her courage, for showing us what victory looks like wearing Manolo’s and a leather miniskirt.
“She once shared with me that when her time came to leave this earth, she would not be afraid, but excited and curious.
“Because she had learned how to live surrounded by her beloved husband, Erwin, and friends.”
President Joe Biden
The President believes that Tina Turner had “changed the face” of American music forever.
In his tribute, he said: “Before she was the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Tina Turner was a farmer’s daughter in Tennessee. “As a child, she sang in the church choir before becoming one of the most successful recording artists of all time.
“With 12 Grammy Awards, she was the only woman to win in the pop, rock, and R’n’B categories, a signal of her versatility, creativity, and broad appeal. Millions flocked to her concerts. Her high-octane dance performances were legendary. And her iconic hits – including ‘Proud Mary’, ‘The Best’, ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’ – continue to be treasured, and sung at full volume, by generations of fans.
“In addition to being a once-in-a-generation talent that changed American music forever, Tina’s personal strength was remarkable. Overcoming adversity, and even abuse, she built a career for the ages and a life and legacy that were entirely hers.”
Bill Clinton
The former president was another one of a handful of politicians to pay tribute to Tina upon her death as he remarked that he will “never forget” meeting her.
He said: “I loved Tina Turner and will never forget meeting her when she came to Little Rock for a concert after releasing ‘Private Dancer’ in 1984.
“We met again on her 67th birthday in St Petersburg, where she and Elton John sang for a charity event.
“She still had it, talent, style, energy and authenticity. A priceless gift to music lovers everywhere. May she rest in peace.”
Madonna
The Queen of Pop was quick to pay tribute to the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll following her death, with the ‘Like a Virgin’ hitmaker stating: “Thank you, Tina Turner. You paved the way for so many women!”
Sir Elton John
The ‘Your Song’ hitmaker was good friends with Tina and can be seen here performing with her during her ‘Private Dancer’ tour in 1985.
Following her death, Elton remembered Tina as a “total legend on record and on stage”.
Beyoncé
The ‘Single Ladies’ hitamaker was full of admiration for Tina Turner and upon her passing, noted how much the ‘Nutbush City Limits’ singer had influenced her own stage act and singing.
She said: “My beloved queen. I love you endlessly.
“I am so grateful for your inspiration, and all the ways you have paved the way. You are strength and resilience. You are the epitome of passion and power.
“We are all so fortunate to have witnessed your kindness and beautiful spirit that will forever remain. Thank you for all you have done.”
Mariah Carey
The ‘Always Be My Baby’ hitmaker remembered Tina as the “epitome of a rock star”.
She said: “Tina. I owe you so much. You are the true epitome of a rock star that gave your all this lifetime. You inspire me to give mine.You taught us lessons and what true transformative power through honesty and vulnerability look like.”
Sir Mick Jagger
Rolling Stones frontman Sir Mick Jagger paid a glowing tribute to his “wonderful friend” Tina Turner.
The Rolling Stones and Tina toured together and Mick borrowed many of his own signature dance moves from Tina.
The 79-year-old singer wrote on Instagram: “I’m so saddened by the passing of my wonderful friend Tina Turner. She was truly an enormously talented performer and singer. She was inspiring, warm, funny and generous. She helped me so much when I was young and I will never forget her.”
Angela Basset
The Hollywood star was nominated for an Oscar when she took on the role of Tina in the 1993 biopic ‘What’s Love Got to Do With It?’, which was based on Tina’s 1986 autobiography ‘I, Tina’ and told the story of her abusive marriage to Ike Turner – played by Laurence Fishburne.
Angela remained friends with Tina in the years that followed.
Following her passing, Angela said: “Through her courage in telling her story, her commitment to stay the course in her life, no matter the sacrifice, and her determination to carve out a space in rock and roll for herself and for others who look like her, Tina Turner showed others who lived in fear what a beautiful future filled with love, compassion, and freedom should look like. Her final words to me – for me – were ‘You never mimicked me. Instead, you reached deep into your soul, found your inner Tina, and showed her to the world.’ I shall hold these words close to my heart for the rest of my days.”
Source: Bang Showbiz
