On May 24, 2023, the world mourned the loss of an icon when Tina Turner's team announced her passing at the age of 83. Fans around the globe felt the weight of her absence, as they reflected on her incredible journey that spanned more than six decades. Known for her powerful voice and electrifying performances, Tina Turner wasn't just a musician—she was a force of nature who redefined what it meant to be a performer. From her early days in St. Louis to becoming a global sensation, Tina left an indelible mark on music history.
Tina Turner's Journey: From St. Louis to Global Stardom
Anna Mae Bullock, later known as Tina Turner, was born in 1939 in Tennessee. Her journey into the world of music began in the late 1950s when she started performing in nightclubs in St. Louis and East St. Louis. It was during this time that she crossed paths with Ike Turner, a musician and bandleader who would become a pivotal figure in her early career. Their collaboration began when Tina joined Ike's band, and their partnership quickly blossomed into both a professional and personal relationship. Together, they created some of the most iconic sounds of the era.
Under the stage name "Tina Turner," she burst onto the scene with the 1960 hit single "A Fool in Love." The duo of Ike and Tina Turner became a powerhouse act, touring extensively and captivating audiences worldwide. However, the relationship was far from perfect. In 1976, Tina made the difficult decision to file for divorce from Ike after years of physical abuse and his struggles with drug addiction. This marked a turning point in her life, as she stepped out on her own and began forging a new path as a solo artist.
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Her solo career skyrocketed in the 1980s with hits like "What's Love Got to Do with It," earning her numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards. Beyond her music, Tina also ventured into acting, starring in films like Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome and TV shows like Ally McBeal. Her induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame solidified her status as a legend. In her later years, Tina continued to receive recognition for her contributions to music, including the 2018 Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. She even sold the rights to her music catalog to BMG for a reported $50 million in 2021, ensuring her legacy would live on.
Tina Turner's Family: A Legacy Beyond Music
Her Children: A Reflection of Her Life
Tina was not only a trailblazer in music but also a devoted mother. She welcomed her first child, Craig, in 1958 with saxophonist Raymond Hill. Craig tragically died by suicide in 2018 at the age of 59, leaving Tina heartbroken. In a candid interview with CBS News, Tina opened up about her son's struggles, saying, "I think Craig was lonely, that's what I think really got him more than anything else." Despite the pain of his loss, Tina found solace in the memories they shared, reflecting, "I have pictures all around of him smiling, and I think I'm sensing that he's in a good place. I really do."
After marrying Ike Turner, Tina adopted his two children from a previous relationship, Ike Jr. and Michael. Together, they also welcomed their son Ronnie in 1960. Unfortunately, Ronnie passed away in December 2022 at the age of 62 due to complications from metastatic colon cancer. Through all the challenges, Tina's family remained a central part of her life, shaping her journey and resilience.
Erwin Bach: Tina Turner's Love Story
The Love That Changed Her Life
In 1985, Tina met Erwin Bach, a German-born music executive, at an airport in Germany. Despite the 16-year age difference, the two formed an instant connection. Tina later wrote in her 2020 book, Happiness Becomes You: A Guide to Changing Your Life for Good, "I should have been too tired from my flight, too preoccupied with thoughts of my concert tour and in too much of a hurry to get to my hotel to pay much attention to the young music executive who came from my record company to welcome me. But I did notice him." Their relationship blossomed over the years, leading to a marriage in 2013 after nearly three decades together.
Their union was not without its challenges. Tina suffered a stroke just three months after their wedding, followed by a diagnosis of intestinal cancer in 2016. In 2017, Erwin donated one of his kidneys to Tina when she faced total kidney failure. Despite rumors and speculation about their relationship, Erwin remained steadfast in his support. Tina addressed the rumors in her 2018 memoir, My Love Story, writing, "I wondered if anyone would think that Erwin’s living donation was transactional in some way. ... There were still people who wanted to believe that Erwin married me for my money and fame. What else would a younger man want with an older woman? Erwin always ignored the rumors."
Tina Turner's Final Chapter: A Life Well-Lived
Tina Turner's passing was announced on May 24, 2023, via a heartfelt statement on her official Instagram page. "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Tina Turner," the statement read. "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 passed away due to natural causes after battling an undisclosed illness.
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In the years leading up to her death, Tina remained reflective and grateful. "I’m a happy person," she once said. "I had a very hard life. But I didn’t put blame on anything or anyone. I got through it." Her resilience and positivity continue to inspire fans worldwide, ensuring that her legacy will endure for generations to come.
