Tina Turner is a legendary American singer, songwriter, dancer, and actress. Born Anna Mae Bullock in 1939 in Nutbush, Tennessee, Turner rose to fame in the 1960s as part of the duo Ike & Tina Turner, with her then-husband Ike Turner. The duo’s energetic live performances and hit songs like “River Deep – Mountain High” and “Proud Mary” made them one of the most popular acts of the era.
Following her tumultuous marriage to Ike, Turner launched a successful solo career in the 1980s with hits like “What’s Love Got to Do With It” and “Private Dancer,” earning her numerous awards and accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards and inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Turner’s powerful voice, dynamic stage presence, and signature dance moves have made her a cultural icon and an inspiration to generations of fans and musicians. Her personal story of resilience and triumph over adversity has also made her a symbol of strength and empowerment for women around the world.
Throughout her career, Turner has also been a philanthropist and an advocate for various causes, including victims of domestic violence and children’s health. She continues to inspire and entertain audiences with her music and her legacy, cementing her place as one of the greatest entertainers of all time.
1. Nutbush City Limits (1973 and 1991)
“Nutbush City Limits” is a high-energy rock and roll song originally recorded by Ike and Tina Turner in 1973. The song is named after Nutbush, a small town in Tennessee where Tina grew up. The lyrics celebrate the joys of small-town life and the unique culture of the American South, with Tina’s powerful vocals and Ike’s electrifying guitar riffs driving the song forward. The song was later re-recorded by Tina as a solo artist in 1991, with a more polished production and updated instrumentation. “Nutbush City Limits” is a classic rock anthem that has become a beloved staple of Tina’s repertoire.
2. Private Dancer (1984)
Tina Turner’s “Private Dancer” is a soulful and seductive ballad that explores the struggles of a woman working as a professional dancer in a strip club. The song’s slow and sultry rhythm is complemented by Turner’s powerful vocals and the haunting melody of a saxophone, creating a sensual and captivating ambiance. The lyrics express the sense of loneliness and despair that comes with working in the adult entertainment industry, and the desire to escape and find a better life. “Private Dancer” is a poignant and emotive song that showcases Turner’s incredible talent as a vocalist and her ability to bring raw and honest emotion to her music.
3. Typical Male (1986)
“Typical Male” is a 1986 hit song by Tina Turner, released as part of her album “Break Every Rule.” The song features a catchy, upbeat melody and playful lyrics that challenge gender stereotypes and celebrate female empowerment. Turner’s vocals are powerful and confident, perfectly capturing the song’s playful tone. The song’s music video, featuring Turner in a range of provocative outfits and settings, also became a popular fixture on MTV, further cementing Turner’s status as an iconic and trailblazing artist. “Typical Male” remains a fan favorite and a classic example of Turner’s ability to blend rock, pop, and soul into a sound that is uniquely her own.
4. I Can’t Stand the Rain (1985)
“I Can’t Stand the Rain” is a soulful and bluesy song by Tina Turner, released in 1985. The song was originally recorded by Ann Peebles in 1973, but Tina’s cover became the most famous version of the song. The lyrics describe the emotional turmoil of a woman who is unable to cope with the rain and its associations with loneliness and heartbreak. Tina’s vocals are raw and emotional, backed by a haunting instrumental that captures the mood of the song perfectly. “I Can’t Stand the Rain” is a powerful and timeless classic that showcases Tina’s unmatched talent and artistry.
5. The Best (1989)
Tina Turner’s “The Best” is an upbeat and empowering anthem that celebrates the joy and power of love. The song’s infectious melody, energetic guitar riffs, and Turner’s powerful vocals create a sense of positivity and enthusiasm that is impossible to resist. The lyrics express the idea that true love is transformative and empowering, and that being with the right person can bring out the best in us. “The Best” is a testament to the resilience and strength of the human spirit, and a reminder that we can achieve anything when we have the love and support of those who believe in us.
6. We Don’t Need Another Hero (1985)
“We Don’t Need Another Hero” is a 1985 hit song by Tina Turner, recorded for the soundtrack of the film “Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome.” The song’s driving beat, powerful chorus, and memorable synthesizer riff have made it an enduring classic of 1980s pop music. The song’s lyrics, which urge listeners to reject violence and embrace unity, also struck a chord with audiences around the world, making it one of Turner’s most socially conscious and politically relevant works. “We Don’t Need Another Hero” showcases Turner’s ability to blend message-driven lyrics with a catchy, accessible sound, cementing her status as one of the greatest singers and performers of her generation.
7. I Don’t Wanna Lose You (1989)
“I Don’t Wanna Lose You” is a romantic ballad by Tina Turner, released in 1989. The song was co-written by British songwriter Albert Hammond and became a top 10 hit in the UK and several other countries. The lyrics describe the fear of losing a loved one and the importance of holding onto the love that they share. Tina’s vocals are emotive and passionate, backed by a lush instrumental that includes soaring strings and a delicate piano melody. “I Don’t Wanna Lose You” is a beautiful and heartfelt song that showcases Tina’s ability to convey deep emotion through her music.
8. Proud Mary (1970 and 1993)
“Proud Mary” is a classic song that was originally released by Creedence Clearwater Revival in 1969, but Tina Turner’s iconic cover of the song in 1970 brought it to new heights of popularity. Her version of the song, released on her album “Workin’ Together,” features a driving rock beat, catchy melody, and Turner’s powerful vocals, which add a new level of energy and soul to the already beloved tune. Her live performance of the song in the 1993 concert film “What’s Love Got to Do with It” also became a hit, cementing the song’s place as one of Turner’s most beloved and enduring classics.
9. River Deep, Mountain High (1966)
Tina Turner’s “River Deep, Mountain High” is a classic soulful rock song that showcases her incredible vocal range and power. The song’s dramatic melody, lush orchestration, and soaring vocals create an epic and emotionally charged atmosphere. The lyrics describe the depth of love and devotion that the narrator feels for her partner, comparing it to the power of natural wonders like mountains and rivers. “River Deep, Mountain High” is a timeless masterpiece that epitomizes the best of 1960s soul music, and showcases Turner’s exceptional talent as a vocalist and performer. The song remains a beloved classic that continues to inspire and captivate audiences today.
10. What’s Love Got to Do with It (1984)
“What’s Love Got to Do with It” is a 1984 hit song by Tina Turner, released as part of her album “Private Dancer.” The song’s catchy pop melody, coupled with Turner’s powerful vocals, made it an instant hit and helped revitalize her career after a period of relative obscurity. The song’s lyrics, which question the role of love in relationships, also resonated with audiences around the world and cemented Turner’s status as a cultural icon. “What’s Love Got to Do with It” remains one of Turner’s most enduring and beloved works, inspiring generations of fans and musicians alike.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
