Tina Turner, the undisputed “Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll,” was a force of nature whose electrifying voice, magnetic stage presence, and raw emotional power changed the music world forever. From humble beginnings in Nutbush, Tennessee, to becoming a global icon, Tina’s career spanned decades, genres, and generations, leaving behind a legacy that is as timeless as her unforgettable performances. Whether belting out soulful ballads, commanding fiery rock anthems, or reinventing pop classics, Tina Turner had an unmatched ability to connect with audiences, making every song a journey of passion and resilience.
Her catalog is filled with hits that have stood the test of time, each one capturing a unique moment in her storied career. From chart-topping solo tracks that defined the 1980s to powerful collaborations with Ike Turner that set the stage for her rise, Tina’s music has been the soundtrack to countless lives. In this article, we celebrate the top 10 most popular Tina Turner songs—the tracks that made us dance, cry, and cheer as only Tina could. These songs showcase her incredible versatility, strength, and artistry, proving why she remains one of the greatest performers of all time. So, turn up the volume and relive the magic of Tina Turner’s legendary hits!
1. “What’s Love Got to Do with It” (1984)
Released in 1984 as part of Tina Turner’s groundbreaking Private Dancer album, “What’s Love Got to Do with It” became her defining anthem. This sultry yet vulnerable track tells the story of love as a transaction, rejecting sentimentality in favor of raw emotional pragmatism. Tina’s smoky voice glides over a smooth, synth-driven production, capturing the spirit of the 1980s. Its relatable message and unforgettable hook propelled it to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, earning Tina her first Grammy for Record of the Year. This song marked her triumphant return to the spotlight, redefining her as a solo rock and pop icon.
2. “Proud Mary” (1971)
Originally a Creedence Clearwater Revival hit, Tina Turner’s 1971 rendition of “Proud Mary” with Ike Turner transformed the song into a high-energy, soulful masterpiece. Beginning with a slow, bluesy intro, the track builds into a full-blown rock explosion, powered by Tina’s fiery vocals. Her electrifying delivery, paired with Ike’s bold arrangement, made this version legendary. A staple of Tina’s live performances, “Proud Mary” solidified her reputation as a powerhouse performer. It earned critical acclaim and remains one of the most iconic covers in music history.
3. “Private Dancer” (1984)
Written by Dire Straits’ Mark Knopfler, “Private Dancer” is a haunting ballad about the struggles of a performer caught between dreams and reality. Released in 1984, the title track of Tina’s Private Dancer album showcases her ability to convey vulnerability and strength simultaneously. The slow, atmospheric instrumentation highlights Tina’s expressive voice as she sings from the perspective of a disillusioned dancer. The song’s introspective tone and emotional depth struck a chord with fans, making it one of her most poignant and enduring hits.
4. “The Best” (1989)
Released in 1989 on the Foreign Affair album, “The Best” is a larger-than-life anthem of love and admiration. Tina’s powerful vocals soar over the song’s driving rhythm and triumphant melody, creating a track that feels both personal and universal. Originally recorded by Bonnie Tyler, Tina’s version elevated “The Best” to iconic status, turning it into a rallying cry for empowerment. Its infectious chorus and uplifting message have made it a pop culture staple, often used to celebrate excellence in sports and beyond.
5. “River Deep – Mountain High” (1966)
Phil Spector’s production of “River Deep – Mountain High” in 1966 paired Tina Turner’s explosive voice with his famous “Wall of Sound.” The result was a towering masterpiece that blends soul, pop, and rock into an exhilarating experience. Tina’s vocal performance is nothing short of breathtaking as she belts out lyrics about boundless love. Although it initially underperformed in the U.S., it became a massive hit in Europe and is now regarded as one of the greatest songs of all time. Tina later described it as one of her favorite recordings.
6. “We Don’t Need Another Hero (Thunderdome)” (1985)
This powerful ballad, released in 1985 as part of the soundtrack for Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome, showcases Tina Turner’s commanding presence as both a singer and an actress. The song’s dramatic structure and cinematic production perfectly complement Tina’s role in the film. Her voice exudes both strength and longing as she sings of hope in a post-apocalyptic world. “We Don’t Need Another Hero” became a global hit, reaching the top of charts worldwide and earning Tina yet another Grammy nomination.
7. “Better Be Good to Me” (1984)
“Better Be Good to Me,” from Tina Turner’s Private Dancer album, is a fiery rock anthem with a defiant message of self-respect. Released in 1984, the track’s bold guitar riffs and driving beat perfectly match Tina’s powerhouse vocals. The song speaks to anyone who’s demanded better treatment in a relationship, making it both relatable and empowering. It became a standout hit, earning Tina a Grammy for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance and further cementing her place in the rock pantheon.
8. “Nutbush City Limits” (1973)
Written by Tina Turner herself, “Nutbush City Limits” is a funky homage to her hometown of Nutbush, Tennessee. Released in 1973, the track features a driving rhythm and sharp guitar riffs that complement Tina’s gritty, soulful vocals. The autobiographical lyrics paint a vivid picture of small-town life, capturing both its charm and limitations. The song became a major hit, showcasing Tina’s songwriting talent and cementing her as a force to be reckoned with in both rock and soul.
9. “GoldenEye” (1995)
Tina Turner brought her signature energy and sophistication to “GoldenEye,” the theme song for the 1995 James Bond film. Written by U2’s Bono and The Edge, the track combines a sultry, mysterious melody with Tina’s commanding vocals, perfectly capturing the essence of the Bond franchise. The song’s dramatic crescendos and lush orchestration make it a standout among Bond themes, and Tina’s performance added a layer of glamour and intrigue that only she could deliver.
10. “I Don’t Wanna Fight” (1993)
Released as part of the soundtrack for Tina’s biographical film What’s Love Got to Do with It, “I Don’t Wanna Fight” is a poignant ballad about letting go of conflict and seeking peace. Released in 1993, the song features a heartfelt vocal performance from Tina, layered over a smooth, R&B-inspired instrumental. Its emotional depth and sincerity resonated with fans, making it a chart-topping hit and a fitting addition to the story of Tina’s life and career.
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.
