Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Tina Turner Dies, Aged 83

Legendary singer Tina Turner, popularly known as the “Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll” has died. The singer whose musical career spans more than six decades was 83 years old.

Turner’s Publicist Bernard Doherty had this to say in a statement on Wednesday, May 24, “With her, the world loses a music legend and a role model. She died after a long illness in her home near Zurich, Switzerland”.

The news of Tina Turner’s death was also announced in a post shared on her official Facebook page.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Tina Turner,” the post 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.”

Turner rose to fame in the 1960s and obtained international stardom with songs like “The Best,” “What’s Love Got To Do With It,” and “We Don’t Need Another Hero.” Turner would go on to write three bestselling memoirs, her final being “Happiness Becomes You.” 

Born Anna Mae Bullock in Nutbush, Tennessee, she made her singing debut in 1960 with the song “A Fool in Love” as part of a duo with Ike Turner, whom she later married in 1962. Turner filed for divorce from the singer and talent scout in 1978 and would go on to speak openly about his emotional and physical abuse. He died in 2007.

In 2010, Rollin Stone included her on its list of Greatest Singers of All Time. With eight Grammy wins, the singer was referred to as an influence on performing artists such as Beyoncé, Mick Jagger and Mary J. Blige.

Adieu, Tina Turner!