The passing of Tina Turner completes the final page on one of music’s greatest stories. A soul survivor who took on the world – and won – the Tennessee born talent grew to encompass a truly global impact. As a vocalist, few could rival her – majestic, powerful, and emotive, she moved effortlessly between soul and rock, between pop and R&B.
News of her death last night (May 26th) shocked fans. Tina Turner may have endured multiple health issues in recent years, but she felt immovable, like some work of nature.
Barack Obama was one of many who offered some words of respect, writing:
Tina Turner was raw. She was powerful. She was unstoppable. And she was unapologetically herself—speaking and singing her truth through joy and pain; triumph and tragedy. Today we join fans around the world in honoring the Queen of Rock and Roll, and a star whose light will never fade.
Beyoncé performed with Tina Turner at the Grammy Awards in 2008, and Tina’s influence sat behind some of the fiercest moments on ‘Lemonade’. Pausing to take stock, Bey wrote on her site:
“My beloved queen. I love you endlessly. I am so grateful for your inspiration, and all the ways you have paved the way. You are strength and resilience. You are the epitome of passion and power. We are all so fortunate to have witnessed your kindness and beautiful spirit that will forever remain. Thank you for all you have done.”
Mick Jagger frequently cited Tina Turner as a major touchstone, and the Rolling Stones frontman was effusive in his praise of a woman he called “my wonderful friend”.
“I’m so saddened by the passing of my wonderful friend Tina Turner. She was truly an enormously talented performer and singer. She was inspiring, warm, funny and generous. She helped me so much when I was young and I will never forget her.”
Sir Elton John called her passing “the saddest news” and shared an emotional salute on Instagram:
“We have lost one of the word’s most exciting and electric performers. A total legend on record and on stage. She was untouchable.”
Pet Shop Boys wrote numerous songs with Tina Turner, establishing a lengthy friendship with the American icon. Reflecting on the loss, the legendary synth pop duo called her “a magnificent singer, an inspirational woman and a beautiful, warm human being. We felt privileged to work with her and send our sincere condolences to her family and her husband, Erwin. Her music will live forever.”
A fellow American great Nancy Sinatra marked her passing:
There will never be another like Tina Turner. The voice, the legs, the energy — unmatched. My heart goes out to her family and all who loved her. You were able to overcome the worst of life and create the best of life. Godspeed, Tina. You were, and you are simply the best.
The tributes didn’t stop at this planet, however – a curiously touching farewell came from NASA’s official account.
Simply the best. Music legend Tina Turner sparkled across the stage and into millions of hearts as the Queen of Rock 'n' Roll. Her legacy will forever live among the stars. pic.twitter.com/W0OGq61vwT
— NASA (@NASA) May 24, 2023
