Tina Turner, born Anna Mae Bullock, was a legendary American-born singer, songwriter, and actress who left an indelible mark on the music industry. Known as the 'Queen of Rock 'n' Roll,' her career spanned over five decades, marked by incredible highs and personal struggles. Here is a timeline of her significant life and career milestones.
Birth
Tina Turner was born Anna Mae Bullock in Brownsville, Tennessee, to a sharecropping family. She grew up in the rural community of Nutbush, Tennessee, where she began singing in her church choir at a young age.
Meeting Ike Turner
At 18, Anna Mae Bullock met Ike Turner at a performance by his band, the Kings of Rhythm, in St. Louis, Missouri. She soon became part of the act and began performing under the name Little Ann, later changing it to Tina Turner.
Debut as Tina Turner
Tina Turner debuted with the hit single 'A Fool In Love,' which reached No. 2 on the Hot R&B Sides chart and No. 27 on the Billboard Hot 100. This marked the beginning of the Ike and Tina Turner Revue, one of the most formidable live acts in history.
Phil Spector Collaboration
Tina Turner collaborated with producer Phil Spector on the monumental single 'River Deep – Mountain High.' Although it flopped in the U.S., it reached the Top 3 in the UK, showcasing her powerful vocals and stage presence.
Grammy Award for 'Proud Mary'
The Ike and Tina Turner Revue earned a Grammy Award for their cover of Creedence Clearwater Revival's 'Proud Mary.' This was a significant milestone in their career, highlighting their ability to reinterpret and elevate classic songs.
Divorce from Ike Turner
Tina Turner filed for divorce from Ike Turner, marking the end of their tumultuous marriage and the dissolution of the Ike and Tina Turner Revue. This period was also marked by her struggles with abuse and her journey towards independence.
Comeback with 'Private Dancer'
Tina Turner released her comeback album 'Private Dancer,' which included the hit single 'What's Love Got to Do with It.' This album was a critical and commercial success, selling over 20 million copies worldwide and earning her three Grammy Awards.
Film Role in 'Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome'
Tina Turner starred in the film 'Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome,' further expanding her career into acting. Her role as Aunty Entity showcased her versatility as a performer.
Retirement from Performing
After completing her Tina!: 50th Anniversary Tour, Tina Turner officially retired from performing. This marked the end of an illustrious live performance career that spanned over five decades.
Swiss Citizenship
Tina Turner became a Swiss citizen and relinquished her U.S. citizenship. She had been residing in Switzerland for several years prior to this decision.
Passing
Tina Turner passed away peacefully at her home in Küsnacht, Switzerland, at the age of 83, after a long battle with illness. Her legacy as the 'Queen of Rock 'n' Roll' continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans.