Rock Icon Tina Turner Passes Away at the Age of 83

Tina Turner, the iconic “Queen of Rock ‘n Roll,” whose legendary status soared after triumphing over a tumultuous and violent divorce from musician Ike Turner, has passed away at the age of 83.

The news of the superstar’s demise was confirmed by her family in a statement on Wednesday, May 24. It was revealed that Turner peacefully breathed her last at her residence near Zurich, Switzerland as reported by Precinct Reporter Group.

“From her electrifying performances alongside her ex-husband Ike, Turner injected an unbridled and explosive stage presence into the realm of pop music,” expressed Brittany Spanos of Rolling Stone in a heartfelt tribute.

“Even when accompanied by choreographed backup singers, both with Ike and during her solo career, Turner never held back,” declared Spanos, who co-authored the tribute with David Browne.

“Her impact on rock, R&B, and soul singing and performance was immeasurable. Her style influenced the likes of Mick Jagger and Mary J. Blige. At the same time, her high-energy stage presence (enhanced by an array of gravity-defying wigs) was inherited by Janet Jackson and Beyoncé.

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“Turner’s message—a resounding one that resonated with generations of women—was that she could hold her own on stage against any man.”

Born Anna Mae Bullock in Tennessee in 1939, Turner embarked on her career in 1958 as the lead vocalist for Ike Turner and his Kings of Rhythm band.

Subsequently, the duo renamed themselves the Ike & Tina Revue and achieved a string of hits with songs like “Nutbush City Limits,” “River Deep,” and the seminal “Proud Mary.”

After enduring a tumultuous and abusive relationship, Tina broke free from Ike’s clutches in 1976. She escaped with no money and only the clothes on her back, which reportedly bore the stains of Ike’s latest assault.

During the divorce proceedings, Tina simply insisted on retaining her stage name, a request the judge granted.

With support from rock luminaries such as Mick Jagger and David Bowie, Turner made a triumphant comeback several years later, dominating the pop music charts with her 1984 solo album, “Private Dancer.”

The album boasted a multitude of hit singles, including a cover of Al Green’s “Let’s Stay Together” and “What’s Love Got to Do With It,” which also became the title of her acclaimed 1993 biographical film starring Angela Bassett and Laurence Fishburne.

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She further captivated audiences with her starring role alongside Mel Gibson in the 1995 film “Mad Max: Beyond Thunderdome.” In 1986, Turner penned her memoir, “I, Tina,” which served as the basis for the film adaptation, “What’s Love Got to Do With It.”

Throughout her career, Turner amassed 11 Grammy Awards and sold an estimated 180 million records worldwide.

In 2001, she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and, after taking a hiatus from performing, embarked on a worldwide tour in 2008 to celebrate her 50th anniversary in show business.

“Heaven has gained an angel,” tweeted singer Ciara. “Thank you for the inspiration you gave us all.”

Hip-hop pioneer Grandmaster Flash also expressed his condolences: “My condolences to the Turner family. Rest in peace, Tina Turner. You will be missed.”

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Photo: Facebook / @Tina Turner