Tina Turner, born Anna Mae Bullock on November 26, 1939, is an iconic American-born singer, dancer, and actress whose career has spanned over six decades. Renowned as the “Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll,” Turner rose to fame in the 1960s as part of the dynamic duo Ike & Tina Turner. With her powerful, soulful voice and electrifying stage presence, she captivated audiences worldwide.
After a tumultuous personal and professional relationship with Ike Turner, Tina embarked on a solo career in the 1970s. Her solo breakthrough came in the 1980s with the release of the album “Private Dancer,” featuring hits like “What’s Love Got to Do with It” and “Better Be Good to Me.” These successes marked a resurgence that solidified her status as a global music sensation.
Beyond her musical achievements, Tina Turner’s life story, chronicled in her autobiography and the biographical film “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” inspired countless individuals. Her resilience, unmatched energy, and timeless hits have left an indelible impact on the music industry, earning her numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards. Tina Turner stands as a living legend, celebrated for her enduring talent, empowering persona, and the lasting legacy she has crafted in the annals of rock and soul music.
1. GoldenEye
“GoldenEye” is a song performed by Tina Turner and serves as the theme for the 1995 James Bond film of the same name. Written by Bono and The Edge of U2, the track showcases Tina Turner’s commanding vocals and became synonymous with the iconic Bond franchise.
Released in 1995, “GoldenEye” marked a triumphant return for Tina Turner, catapulting her back into the spotlight after a brief hiatus. The song’s title refers to the satellite featured in the film’s plot, and Turner’s performance exudes both strength and sensuality, complementing the character of the film’s protagonist, James Bond.
The track’s production, characterized by a blend of rock and electronic elements, aligns with the film’s contemporary aesthetic. The memorable chorus, with lines like “GoldenEye, I’ll show you my whole life,” adds to the song’s allure. “GoldenEye” achieved commercial success, reaching high positions on various charts and earning critical acclaim for its contribution to the Bond musical legacy.
Tina Turner’s rendition of “GoldenEye” not only solidified her as a timeless diva but also demonstrated her ability to elevate a film’s theme song to iconic status. The song remains a testament to Turner’s enduring talent and the enduring allure of the Bond franchise.
2. River Deep – Mountain High
“River Deep – Mountain High” is a classic song performed by Tina Turner. Originally released in 1966, the song is a dynamic collaboration between Tina Turner and producer Phil Spector. It marked a significant moment in Turner’s career as a solo artist after her departure from Ike & Tina Turner’s Revue.
The track is celebrated for its powerful vocals, intricate production, and a wall of sound that was characteristic of Phil Spector’s production style. Tina Turner’s performance in “River Deep – Mountain High” showcased her exceptional range and emotive delivery. The song is known for its sweeping orchestral arrangements, featuring a symphony of instruments that contribute to its grand and epic feel.
Despite its critical acclaim, “River Deep – Mountain High” faced initial commercial challenges in the United States but gained popularity in Europe. Over the years, it has been recognized as one of Turner’s signature songs and a classic in the history of soul and rock music. The song’s enduring legacy is a testament to the timeless quality of Tina Turner’s voice and the groundbreaking production work of Phil Spector.
3. Proud Mary
“Proud Mary” is a classic rock song originally written by John Fogerty and performed by Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR). It was released in 1969 as a single and later included in their album “Bayou Country.” The song became one of CCR’s most well-known and enduring hits.
The iconic opening guitar riff sets the stage for a dynamic and energetic journey down the river. The lyrics tell the story of a riverboat journey on the Mississippi, with the narrator expressing pride in the hard work and perseverance required to keep the riverboat running.
The most famous version of “Proud Mary” outside of CCR is Tina Turner’s electrifying cover, released in 1971. Turner’s rendition, especially her live performance, brought a soulful and powerful energy to the song, solidifying its status as a timeless classic.
Whether you prefer the swampy rock vibe of CCR’s original or the soulful, electric energy of Tina Turner’s cover, “Proud Mary” remains a musical gem that has stood the test of time. It’s a celebration of hard work, resilience, and the joy of moving forward, making it a favorite for generations of music lovers.
4. What’s Love Got to Do with It
“What’s Love Got to Do with It” is a iconic song by Tina Turner, released in 1984 as the lead single from her album “Private Dancer.” Written by Terry Britten and Graham Lyle, the song marked a pivotal moment in Tina Turner’s solo career, propelling her to international stardom.
The track’s upbeat and catchy rhythm, coupled with Turner’s powerful and soulful vocals, contributed to its massive success. The lyrics explore the complexities of love and relationships, questioning the role of love in a world where practical considerations often take precedence.
“What’s Love Got to Do with It” became a chart-topping hit, earning Tina Turner several Grammy Awards and establishing her as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. The song’s success was not only due to its infectious melody but also Turner’s dynamic performance and the way it resonated with listeners.
The music video, featuring Turner’s captivating presence, added to the song’s impact, making it an iconic piece of 1980s pop culture. “What’s Love Got to Do with It” remains a timeless anthem, celebrated for its empowering message and Tina Turner’s indomitable spirit.
5. Private Dancer
“Private Dancer” is a song by Tina Turner, released in 1984 as the title track from her fifth solo album. The song played a pivotal role in revitalizing Tina Turner’s career, transforming her into a global superstar. Written by Mark Knopfler of Dire Straits, “Private Dancer” is a sultry and emotive ballad that showcases Turner’s powerhouse vocals.
The lyrics of “Private Dancer” tell the story of a woman working as a professional dancer, providing an intimate glimpse into her experiences and emotions. Turner’s passionate and soulful delivery adds depth to the narrative, capturing the essence of longing and vulnerability.
The success of “Private Dancer” marked a significant comeback for Tina Turner, earning her critical acclaim and commercial success. The album of the same name went on to become a massive hit, featuring other iconic tracks like “What’s Love Got to Do with It” and “Better Be Good to Me.” Turner’s magnetic stage presence and the emotional resonance of “Private Dancer” contributed to her resurgence as an international music sensation.
The song remains a classic in Tina Turner’s repertoire, symbolizing her triumphant return to the music scene and solidifying her status as one of the greatest voices in rock and soul. “Private Dancer” stands as a testament to Turner’s ability to convey raw emotion and connect with audiences on a profound level.
6. Better Be Good to Me
“Better Be Good to Me” is another hit by Tina Turner from her 1984 album “Private Dancer.” Co-written by Nicky Chinn, Mike Chapman, and Holly Knight, the song is a powerful and assertive anthem that showcases Turner’s commanding vocals.
Released as a single, “Better Be Good to Me” became a chart success, earning Tina Turner a Grammy Award for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance in 1985. The song’s lyrics depict a strong and independent woman demanding respect and fairness in a romantic relationship. Turner’s impassioned delivery adds emotional depth to the message, making it an empowering anthem for listeners.
The track’s rock-infused sound, coupled with Turner’s dynamic stage presence, contributed to its popularity. The music video, featuring Turner’s electrifying performance, further solidified the song’s impact.
“Better Be Good to Me” stands as a testament to Tina Turner’s ability to blend rock, pop, and soul, creating a sound that resonates across genres. The song’s themes of empowerment and self-worth continue to make it a timeless classic, reminding listeners of the strength and resilience embodied by Tina Turner herself.
7. The Best
“The Best” is a song performed by Tina Turner, released in 1989 as the lead single from her album “Foreign Affair.” Co-written by Mike Chapman and Holly Knight, the song became one of Tina Turner’s signature hits and is celebrated for its empowering and anthemic qualities.
“The Best” is a declaration of love and affirmation, with lyrics expressing admiration and devotion. Turner’s dynamic and soulful vocals, combined with the uplifting chorus, create a powerful and positive anthem. The song’s infectious energy contributed to its widespread popularity, and it became a chart-topping success in multiple countries.
The accompanying music video features Turner in various glamorous and powerful settings, reinforcing the song’s theme of strength and resilience. “The Best” has been widely used in various media, including commercials and sports events, further solidifying its cultural impact.
Tina Turner’s rendition of “The Best” resonates not only for its catchy melody but also for its universal message of love and empowerment. The song remains a testament to Turner’s enduring talent and her ability to connect with audiences through her powerful voice and captivating performances. “The Best” stands as one of the defining tracks in Tina Turner’s illustrious career.
8. Typical Male
“Typical Male” is a lively and upbeat song by Tina Turner, released in 1986 as the lead single from her album “Break Every Rule.” Co-written by Terry Britten and Graham Lyle, the song is a catchy and energetic anthem that showcases Turner’s powerful vocals and charismatic stage presence.
The lyrics playfully explore gender dynamics, with Turner singing about the stereotypical behaviors associated with both men and women. The chorus features the repetition of the phrase “Typical male,” adding a sense of humor and irony to the song. Turner’s spirited delivery and the infectious rhythm contribute to the track’s overall feel-good vibe.
“Typical Male” became a commercial success, reaching high positions on various music charts. The accompanying music video, featuring Turner’s dynamic performance and playful interactions, added to the song’s popularity.
The track stands as a memorable example of Tina Turner’s ability to infuse her music with energy and personality. “Typical Male” is not only a testament to Turner’s enduring talent but also a reminder of her impact as a trailblazing artist in the world of rock and pop music.
9. I Don’t Wanna Fight
“I Don’t Wanna Fight” is a song by Tina Turner, released in 1993 as part of her album “What’s Love Got to Do with It: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack.” Co-written by Steve DuBerry, Lulu, and Billy Lawrie, the song served as a pivotal track in Tina Turner’s career during the early 1990s.
The lyrics of “I Don’t Wanna Fight” express a desire to avoid conflict in a relationship, conveying the emotional toll of disagreements and the yearning for resolution. Turner’s emotive vocals bring a poignant depth to the song, capturing the complexities of love and the struggles within a partnership.
The release of “I Don’t Wanna Fight” coincided with the biographical film “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” based on Tina Turner’s life. The song became a commercial success, earning Turner critical acclaim and reaffirming her status as a timeless musical icon.
“I Don’t Wanna Fight” showcases Turner’s ability to convey emotion and vulnerability through her powerful voice. The song’s success added another layer to Tina Turner’s remarkable career, proving her enduring relevance and ability to connect with audiences through her soulful and heartfelt performances.
10. We Don’t Need Another Hero
“We Don’t Need Another Hero (Thunderdome)” is a powerful ballad by Tina Turner, released in 1985. Written by Terry Britten and Graham Lyle, the song served as the theme for the film “Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome,” in which Tina Turner also starred.
The lyrics convey themes of resilience, survival, and the yearning for a better world in a dystopian setting. The title phrase “We don’t need another hero” suggests a skepticism towards the idea of relying on a savior or figurehead, emphasizing the importance of self-reliance and collective strength.
Turner’s vocals in “We Don’t Need Another Hero” are both emotive and anthemic, capturing the essence of the song’s message. The arrangement, with its atmospheric synthesizers and powerful instrumentation, adds to the epic and cinematic quality of the track.
The song became a significant hit, earning Tina Turner critical acclaim and commercial success. It received nominations for various awards and remains one of her signature songs. “We Don’t Need Another Hero” showcases Turner’s ability to convey emotion and deliver a powerful message through her music, making it a memorable and impactful piece in her illustrious career.
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.
