Born as Anne Mae Bullock in Tennessee in 1939, Tina Turner made her entry into the music industry in the late 1950s as a member of Ike Turner’s Kings of Rhythm. After marrying Ike in 1962, they formed a formidable musical duo. However, their partnership ended in 1976. This was followed by their divorce in 1978. Despite these challenges, Turner experienced a remarkable comeback in the 1980s. Her 1984 album, Private Dancer, reached a peak position of #3 on the charts and achieved five-times platinum certification in the United States. The album’s single, “What’s Love Got To Do With It,” spent three weeks at #1 in September of that same year.
Turner’s influence extended beyond music as she became involved in pop culture. In addition to starring in the 1985 film Mad Max: Thunderdome, she recorded the film’s main original song, “We Don’t Need Another Hero (Thunderdome).” The single reached #2 on the charts. Another song from the film, “One of the Living,” reached #15. A decade later, Turner was approached to perform the theme song for the 1995 James Bond film, Goldeneye. Initially intended to be a song by Depeche Mode, the band’s touring schedule prevented their participation. This led Bono and U2 to write a song specifically for Turner when she was offered the prestigious role. In 1986, Turner was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. She was a true legend, and many have taken to social media to mourn her passing.
Tina Turner’s Influence Lives On
Earlier today, it was announced that the legendary performer had passed away. Turner’s team made a statement via her social media confirming the news. “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Tina Turner,” the statement said. “With her music and her boundless passion for life, she enchanted millions of fans around the world and inspired the stars of tomorrow. Today we say goodbye to a dear friend who leaves us all her greatest work: her music. All our heartfelt compassion goes out to her family. Tina, we will miss you dearly.”
Tina Turner inspired a generation of performers, many of which have expressed their sadness at her passing. “Survivor. The King & Queen. She was everything,” Questlove said. “This is one of the figures I just knew would live in her 3 digits. I was not prepared to say goodbye to Tina Turner.” Erykah Badu also took to social media to make her thoughts known. “Cultural Icon down. Safe Journey Anna Mae Bullock. You were HERE,” she wrote alongside a picture of the iconic singer. Stay tuned to HNHH for the latest updates.