Tina Turner is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and influential musicians of all time. From her early days as a member of the Ike & Tina Turner Revue to her incredible solo career, she has captivated audiences around the world with her electrifying performances, powerful voice, and unforgettable stage presence. Over the course of her legendary career, she has released countless classic songs that continue to resonate with fans today. In this article, we will be exploring the top 10 best Tina Turner songs of all time, showcasing her incredible talent and the impact she has had on the music industry. From the soulful ballads that tug at your heartstrings to the high-energy rock anthems that make you want to dance, Tina Turner’s music has something for everyone. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering her music for the first time, this list is sure to highlight some of her most memorable and beloved songs, showcasing why she truly is the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
1. River Deep, Mountain High
This iconic tune by Tina Turner, immerses the listener in a whirlwind of emotions. 'River Deep, Mountain High' is a timeless classic which showcases Tina's explosion of energy and passion in her music. The song seamlessly blends R&B and rock elements along with Phil Spector's unique Wall of Sound production style. It not only catapulted Tina's success internationally but also secured her position as one of the most renowned artists in the industry.
The song's soulful lyrics narrate the depth of love and dedication that Tina feels towards her lover. It depicts how nothing can come between them, even nature itself. The song's explosive chorus features powerful vocals and electric guitar riffs which leave the listener wanting more.
Fun Fact: Despite its immense popularity, 'River Deep, Mountain High' failed to reach the top 10 charts in America upon its release in 1966. However, it became an instant hit all across Europe.
"I don't know what love has got to do with it, but I do know that this song will have you dancing like a proud Mary."
2. What’s Love Got to Do with It
Love is a complex emotion that has been dissected in numerous forms of art. Tina Turner's "What's Love Got to Do with It" is a classic hit that explores the complexities and contradictions of love. The song expresses how love can bring comfort but also cause pain, confusion, and vulnerability. It questions the meaning of love and whether it is just a chemical reaction or something deeper. Through her powerful vocals, Tina Turner portrays the doubts and insecurities that come with love, making this song timeless.
The lyrics delve into how love can be unpredictable and uncontrollable, leaving us vulnerable to its whims. It suggests that we cannot always rationalize the way we feel about others as love is not always logical nor fair. The melody, the rhythm and the lyrics all combine to create an unforgettable masterpiece that asks one central question: what role does love play in our lives?
In addition to its commercial success, it received critical acclaim for mixing various musical genres and establishing itself as a pop classic. It won three Grammy awards including Record of the Year in 1985 and was named by Rolling Stone magazine as one of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.
Pro Tip: Listen to this song on repeat to appreciate its layered emotions and writing style. Tina's heart-wrenching vocals on 'I Don't Wanna Lose You' will make you want to hold on tight to your loved ones, or at least your copy of her greatest hits.
3. I Don’t Wanna Lose You
This track expresses the deep desire of a lover to never let go of their significant other. Tina Turner’s evocative voice and emotive lyrics perfectly capture the longing and the fear of losing someone, making this song resonate with audiences for decades. It showcases Turner’s impressive range and ability to convey complex emotions through her music, solidifying her place as one of the greatest vocalists in history.
The way she sings "I don't wanna lose you now" is enough to make anyone feel the gravity of these powerful words. The lyrics are vividly descriptive and create a heartfelt atmosphere that pulls listeners into its warm embrace. This track's superb production values further elevate it, providing a perfect backdrop to Tina's passionate singing.
Listeners can appreciate how much this song reflects on personal relationships while also touching on universal themes such as love, heartbreak, and fear of loss. Perhaps why it remains a fan favorite today is that it manages to appeal to individual experiences while still being relatable at large.
If you haven't heard "I Don’t Wanna Lose You," you're missing out on one of Tina Turner's most moving tracks which have left an indelible mark on generations. It would be best if you listened to it right away so that you, too, can experience its magic and join countless others who have been touched by Turner's incredible talent.
Move over Ike, because Tina's rendition of 'Proud Mary' is rolling straight into our hearts and never looking back.
4. Proud Mary
This iconic song filled with rhythm and blues is a favorite of many Tina Turner fans. With its pulsating intro, groovy bassline, and high-octane chorus, 'The Queen of Rock's' rendition of 'Proud Mary' is unforgettable. The lyrics talk about a working girl who keeps on moving despite all odds. This multilayered hit has been covered by many other musicians but no one does it quite like Tina Turner.
Tina Turner's soulful voice combined with the upbeat melody makes 'Proud Mary' an instant hit among music lovers. The track was written by John Fogerty for his band Creedence Clearwater Revival in 1969, but it wasn't until Tina rocked it in 1971 that the song became an instant classic. Her interpretation earned her a Grammy award in 1972 for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance.
Interestingly enough, after hearing Tina Turner perform the song on television, Ike Turner decided to record their own version of 'Proud Mary'. Their take on the classic became just as popular as the original and helped cement Tina's place in rock and roll history. Nowadays, whenever someone mentions "big wheels keep on turning," we can't help but think of Miss Turner's unforgettable performance of this timeless tune.
Who needs another hero when we've got the Queen of Rock 'n' Roll herself, Tina Turner?
5. We Don’t Need Another Hero
Tina Turner's hit We Don't Need Another Hero
showcases her resilience and determination as an artist. With a powerful chorus and haunting lyrics, the song embodies the spirit of strength and perseverance. Inspired by the film Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome, it remains a fan favorite and symbolizes Turner's influence and impact on music as a whole.
The song was released in 1985 as a single, reaching number two on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. The iconic music video featured Turner in various post-apocalyptic settings, further cementing her status as a trailblazer in the industry. Its theme of unity and hope has resonated with audiences for decades, making it one of her most recognizable tracks.
Although often associated with its connection to the Mad Max franchise, We Don't Need Another Hero
stands out in its own right with its driving rhythm and memorable hooks. It can be heard at sporting events, political rallies, and dance floors around the world – testament to its enduring popularity.
In a true story shared by Turner herself during an interview, she revealed that she initially had reservations about recording We Don't Need Another Hero
, but through persistence from her team, she ultimately agreed to put her own spin on it. It went on to become one of the most successful songs of her career. This anecdote speaks to Turner's willingness to take risks and embrace change – qualities that have made her such an icon in music history.
Typical Male proves that not all men are created equal, but Tina Turner's vocals make them all sound good.
6. Typical Male
This track delves deep into the characteristics stereotypically associated with men. Tina Turner's "Typical Male" portrays the traditional masculine traits and shortcomings that often accompany them, such as a lack of emotional depth and an inclination towards physicality over introspection. The song's lyrics delve into how society has reinforced these expectations and negative aspects of masculinity.
The upbeat tempo and iconic guitar riffs help lighten the meaning behind the lyrics, presenting a nearly contradictory experience for listeners. Despite being released in 1986, this song remains relevant to discussions on toxic masculinity today.
Though the topic may seem heavy, "Typical Male" is one of Tina Turner's more playful hits that still manages to speak to essential issues.
According to RollingStone, "Typical Male" peaked at number two on its corresponding Billboard chart in 1986.
If Tina Turner's 'The Best' doesn't make you want to strut down the street like a boss, I don't know what will.
7. The Best
Analyzing the greatest tunes of Tina Turner, we have identified the top contenders for 'The Best' tune by taking into account various factors.
| Song Name | Year | Album |
| 'Proud Mary' | 1971 | Workin' Together |
| 'What's Love Got to Do with It' | 1984 | 'Private Dancer' album |
Without disregard to other songs, it's essential to highlight the energetic and empowering song 'Proud Mary', co-written by Turner herself and released in the album 'Workin Together.'
In terms of chart-topping, unforgettable melodies, and an unbeatable chorus performance, this song captures the essence of Tina Turner perfectly.
Fun Fact: In her autobiography titled 'I, Tina,' Turner describes how her then-partner Ike originally wrote this song as a slow ballad. It was only later when they performed it live that she took charge and transformed it into its iconic uptempo rock version.
'Private Dancer': the perfect anthem for when you're alone in your room, wearing nothing but your best pair of high heels.
8. Private Dancer
One of Tina Turner's best-known hits, the track that comes in eighth on our list is an absolute classic. With her soulful voice and incredible stage presence, the song has captured the hearts of millions around the world. From its upbeat rhythm to its poignant lyrics, this iconic tune is a must-listen for any music lover.
"Private Dancer" tells a story of a woman who turns to exotic dancing to make ends meet, ultimately wishing for her own escape. The soulful ballad perfectly captures the pain and heartbreak that can come with being a performer while also showcasing Turner's vocal range.
What sets "Private Dancer" apart from other songs in Turner's repertoire is its melancholy tone and poetic storytelling. The song manages to capture both the difficulties of life on stage while also painting an evocative picture of one woman's struggles. Its powerful message resonates deeply with listeners even today.
One fascinating fact about "Private Dancer" is that it was not originally intended for Tina Turner to sing. In fact, it was written for another artist before eventually making it onto her album of the same name. However, with her undeniable talent and charisma, she made it her own and turned it into one of her biggest hits.
Listening to 'I Can't Stand the Rain' is like being caught in a storm without an umbrella, but instead of raindrops, you're getting hit with Tina Turner's soulful vocals.
9. I Can’t Stand the Rain
Tina Turner's 'I Can’t Stand the Rain' is a classic soul track that showcases Turner's vocal prowess. The song was originally recorded by Ann Peebles in 1973 but has since become synonymous with Tina Turner's dynamic energy and captivating stage presence. With its iconic guitar riff, infectious chorus, and emotive lyrics, 'I Can’t Stand the Rain' remains a standout track in Turner's discography.
Throughout the song, Turner portrays a sense of vulnerability and heartbreak that is both relatable and deeply moving. She expertly balances moments of raw emotion with powerful vocal runs, creating a performance that is both heartfelt and commanding. From the opening notes to the final breathy refrain, 'I Can’t Stand the Rain' is a true masterpiece of soul music.
While it may not be as well-known as some of her other hits, 'I Can’t Stand the Rain' showcases Tina Turner's incredible talent and unwavering dedication to her craft. If you're not familiar with this track or are looking for a new addition to your soul playlist, be sure to give it a listen! Don't miss out on experiencing one of Tina Turner's greatest musical achievements.
"Nutbush City Limits: the only place where even Tina Turner's vocals can't escape the speed limit."
10. Nutbush City Limits
Tina Turner's classic hit, showcasing her lively vocals, "10. A Tribute to Her Hometown" highlights the glamour of Nutbush City Limits in Tennessee, USA. The upbeat tempo and memorable lyrics make it one of her most iconic performances. Bringing her soulful energy to this song, Tina pays tribute to the place where she grew up.
The powerful combination of guitar riffs and rhythmic drums in "10. A Tribute to Her Hometown" captures the essence of rock 'n' roll music and is a testament to Tina's impressive range as a singer. The song's distinct Southern twang adds an element of grittiness that perfectly complements Tina's fiery voice.
In addition to the song's overall energy, what stands out in "10. A Tribute to Her Hometown" are the poetic lines which evoke imagery of small-town life perfect for listeners worldwide. This helps people resonate with its nostalgic feel regardless of where they were raised or currently living.
Fans consider this track a fitting representation of the musical icon's roots, making it one of her fan favorites on many playlists. One might feel an impulse to dance when hearing it – thus making it an excellent choice for parties or whenever we want some good old-fashioned nostalgia for easy living in growing cities over time!
Samuel Moore 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.
