Tina Turner’s title as the Queen of Rock and Roll isn’t just a superlative; it’s a testament to her unparalleled talent and impact. Her voice resonated with a raw authenticity and unrestrained passion that was truly unique, particularly during the 1960s. Turner’s influence extended far beyond her own performances; she famously taught Mick Jagger how to move, and her artistry inspired generations of musicians from David Bowie to Beyoncé. Her career reached an extraordinary peak in the 1980s with the album Private Dancer, a blockbuster success that solidified her status as a pop music icon in her 40s, proving age was no barrier to achieving global stardom.
As depicted in the powerful 1993 biopic What’s Love Got to Do With It, starring Angela Bassett, Tina Turner’s journey was marked by significant personal challenges. Her early life in rural Tennessee led her to singing alongside Ike Turner as a teenager, a partnership that later became a personal ordeal as she endured years of abuse and control. Her courageous escape and subsequent pursuit of a solo career were far from easy. Facing numerous obstacles and rejections, Turner demonstrated incredible resilience. Her triumphant comeback in the ’80s stands as an inspiring benchmark for artists in rock and pop, demonstrating that true talent and determination can overcome perceived limitations of age and industry expectations.
To honor the extraordinary legacy of this music icon, we are highlighting some of Tina Turner’s best songs. While many of her chart-topping hits, including “What’s Love Got to Do With It,” which reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100, are undeniable classics, this curated selection aims to celebrate a broader spectrum of her work. It encompasses her groundbreaking songs from her time with Ike & Tina Turner and her unforgettable solo hits, reflecting the depth and breadth of her remarkable musical career.
