Tina Turner, the legendary “Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll,” passed away on May 24, 2023, at 83 years old, leaving behind a remarkable musical legacy. Her career, spanning more than fifty years, was filled with chart-topping hits and countless awards, solidifying her as a global icon of talent and endurance. Yet, behind the fame was a life marked by deep personal hardship, particularly the abuse she endured from her former husband and music partner, Ike Turner Sr.
Despite the trauma, Tina displayed tremendous empathy by adopting Ike’s sons from a previous relationship—Michael and Ike Jr.—and raising them alongside her own two children, Ronnie (with Ike Sr.) and Craig Raymond Turner (with saxophonist Raymond Hill).
Born Anna Mae Bullock in 1939, Tina’s early childhood was marred by instability. Her mother abandoned the family when Tina was just ten, followed shortly by her father. She was raised by her grandmother until her teenage years, when she reunited with her mother in St. Louis. There, she crossed paths with Ike Turner, launching the musical duo “Ike and Tina Turner.” While the pair achieved massive success, Tina suffered years of physical and emotional abuse behind the scenes. In 1976, she bravely left the relationship with almost nothing—just 36 cents and a Mobil gas card. Their divorce was finalized in 1978.
Tina’s solo career soared in the 1980s with hit songs like “What’s Love Got to Do With It,” “Private Dancer,” and “Simply the Best.” Her resilience turned her into an even bigger star. She eventually retired from performing in 2009 and moved to Switzerland with her longtime partner, Erwin Bach, whom she married in 2013. Later in life, she faced serious health issues, including a stroke, intestinal cancer, and kidney failure—conditions she overcame with the support of her husband, who donated a kidney to her. Tina frequently spoke of her gratitude and contentment during her final years.
Her relationship with Ike Jr. and Michael became strained after her separation from Ike Sr. Ike Jr. publicly expressed feelings of abandonment, saying they had been out of touch for years, especially after Tina moved abroad. Still, reports suggested that Tina continued to assist Michael during his health challenges. Though emotionally distant, her influence during their upbringing left a lasting mark. Ike Jr., who became a musician himself and even won a Grammy, acknowledged Tina’s early support despite the breakdown of their relationship.
Tina’s final years were filled with contemplation and emotional healing. She stated that she had forgiven Ike Sr., though a full reconciliation never happened. The losses of her biological sons—Craig to suicide in 2018 and Ronnie to cancer in 2022—brought immense grief. Yet, through it all, Tina Turner remained a beacon of strength and perseverance. Her life story stands as a testament to overcoming adversity, and her contributions to music and culture will resonate for generations to come.
