Photo credit: Philip Spittle / CC from 2.0
Legendary singer Tina Turner has died after a long illness, her publicist confirms. She was 83 years old.
“Tina Turner, the ‘Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll’ passed away peacefully at her home in Küsnacht near Zurich, Switzerland, today at the age of 83 after a long illness,” she said speaker confirmed. “With her, the world loses a music legend and role model.”
Tina Turner was born Anna Mae Bullock on November 26, 1939 in Nutbush, Tennessee. She rose to fame in the 1960s as the singer of the band Ike & Tina Turner Revue, but later found great success as a solo artist as well. With her music and her inexhaustible joie de vivre, Tina Turner delighted millions of fans and inspired many artists of subsequent generations.
World hits like “What’s Love Got To Do With It”, “Private Dancer” and “The Best” have helped her to sell more than 180 million albums, 12 Grammy Awards and over three decades of sold-out stadium tours around the world. There will be a private funeral ceremony attended by close friends and family. Her family is asking for privacy at this difficult time, while BMG and Warner Music have offered their condolences.
BMG offered its condolences as the steward of Tina Turner’s music interests. “There will always only be one Tina Turner,” adds BMG boss Hartwig Masuch. “Her music and her life journey have touched so many people. Our condolences to her dear manager and husband Erwin and to all who loved her.”
Max Lousada, CEO, Recorded Music at Warner Music Group, continues, adding, “All of us at Warner Music are deeply saddened by the passing of the one and only Tina Turner.” A global icon and pioneer, instantly recognizable for her incredible voice and her inimitable style, she was one of the biggest stars of all time.”
“Even after the countless awards, 180 million albums sold, record-breaking touring and unforgettable acting roles, Tina will be remembered for the sheer joy of her music. Her extraordinary, universal appeal is so strong that there is no doubt that she will continue to influence generations to come. She is the epitome of artistic self-empowerment. We send our deepest condolences to her husband Erwin Bach, his family, friends and countless fans around the world.”