Tina Turner, born Anna Mae Bullock on November 26, 1939, in Nutbush, Tennessee, is a legendary American singer, songwriter, and actress. Regarded as the “Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll,” Turner’s powerful vocals, electrifying stage presence, and resilience have made her an icon in the music industry.
Turner’s career spans over six decades, during which she achieved remarkable success both as a member of the Ike & Tina Turner Revue and as a solo artist. Known for her dynamic performances and soulful voice, she brought an unmatched energy and passion to her music.
As part of the Ike & Tina Turner Revue, she delivered energetic and soulful performances, recording hits such as “River Deep – Mountain High” and “Proud Mary.” Turner’s commanding stage presence and raw talent captivated audiences, earning her a reputation as one of the most exciting performers of her time.
Following her separation from Ike Turner, Tina embarked on a highly successful solo career, releasing chart-topping hits like “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” “Private Dancer,” and “The Best.” Her solo work showcased her versatility as an artist, incorporating elements of rock, pop, and R&B into her music.
Turner’s remarkable comeback in the 1980s solidified her status as a music legend. Her captivating performances and powerful voice resonated with a new generation of fans, and she became an inspiration to many.
Beyond her musical achievements, Turner’s story of resilience and overcoming adversity has inspired millions. Her autobiography, “I, Tina,” brought attention to her tumultuous personal life, shedding light on the challenges she faced and triumphed over.
Tina Turner’s impact on popular music is immeasurable. Her voice, characterized by its raw power and soulful delivery, combined with her incredible stage presence, has made her one of the most influential performers of all time. Turner’s music continues to inspire and her legacy as a trailblazer and survivor remains an inspiration to generations of artists and fans alike.
1. Private Dancer (1984)
Tina Turner's hit single, released in 1984, "Private Dancer" marked her comeback to the music industry after a five-year break. The song reflects the life of a dancer who turns to prostitution but eventually becomes a star. Its catchy melody and Turner's powerful vocals make it an iconic hit. The song not only won several awards but also made it to the top 10 on Billboard Hot 100.
Turner's story-telling ability and vocal strength are at their prime with "Private Dancer." The lyrics make one ponder upon the realities of life while keeping them entertained with its upbeat tone. This track establishes the evolution of Turner's image from a rockstar performer with her former band Ike & Tina Turner Revue to becoming an independent artist.
"Private Dancer" speaks volumes about Turner's determination to come back stronger, proving that she is much more than what has been narrated before. Her raspy voice and stage presence give goosebumps every time one listens to this classic masterpiece.
Pro Tip: Listen to "Private Dancer" on high volume for an immersive experience that takes you into Tina Turner's world full of pain and triumphs!
I don't know about you, but every time I hear 'Nutbush City Limits', I can't help but picture a group of squirrels running around in tiny denim jackets.
2. Nutbush City Limits (1973 and 1991)
This track from the legendary musician Tina Turner is referred to as 'Nutbush City Limits (1973 and 1991)' in the article. It was released in two distinct versions, one in 1973 and an updated version in 1991. The song celebrates the location of her hometown, Nutbush, Tennessee, USA. It's a fast-paced rock n roll track with elements of funk and soul.
Here is a table displaying some key information about this particular song:
| Song Name | Released | Genre | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nutbush City Limits | 1973 | Rock n Roll/Funk | 2:55 |
| Nutbush City Limits 90's version | 1991 | Rock n Roll/Funk/Soul | 4:17 |
Fun Fact: This song was the opening track for every concert on Tina Turner's 'Wildest Dreams Tour' back in 1996.
Now that you know more about this classic tune, be sure to give it another listen if its been awhile!
Listening to Tina Turner sing about rain is almost as refreshing as being caught in an actual storm (minus the wet socks).
3. I Can’t Stand the Rain (1985)
This song from 1985 is one of Tina Turner's best works. 'I Can't Stand the Rain' showcases her powerful vocals and unique style, bringing both soulful and electrifying elements to the forefront. Its lyrics, blend of genres, and memorable hooks make it a timeless classic.
The track was actually a cover version of the R&B classic by Ann Peebles, but Turner's performance transformed it into something entirely her own. It was produced by Mark Knopfler of Dire Straits and features musical elements that were popular at the time but also stand the test of time.
In addition to its catchy beat and relatable lyrics about love and heartbreak, 'I Can't Stand the Rain' features Turner's signature raspy voice alongside brass instruments and guitar solos. This combination perfectly highlights her range as an artist, making this song a must-listen for fans old and new alike.
For those who have not heard this song before, it is recommended to give it a listen with a good set of headphones or speakers to fully appreciate its rich production values. The song has also been covered by numerous other artists since its release, further cementing its place in music history.
Typical Male proves Tina Turner's expertise in identifying and categorizing men, one catchy song at a time.
4. Typical Male (1986)
Tina Turner's 'Typical Male' track, released in 1986, showcases Turner's mastery in creating timeless tracks with groovy beats and powerful lyrics. This song features Turner belting out verses about the stereotypical characteristics that society attributes to men. 'Typical Male' has a perfect balance of sass, energy, and soulfulness that makes it a fan favorite.
The airy synthesizers and upbeat tempo of 'Typical Male' complement Turner's passionate performance and her voice’s rich timbre gloriously. The track hit #2 on Billboard Hot 100 and became one of Tina Turner's iconic offerings.
With this song, Tina drew comparisons to other cultural genuises like Michael Jackson for its groundbreaking choreography.
Pro Tip: Listening to this classic with headphones delivers a much better experience as background instruments are highly layered and come through more clearly when heard up close. Turner proves she's simply the best with this 1986 hit that still gets crowds dancing and singing along.
5. The Best (1989)
One of the best songs from Tina Turner's 1989 album appears to be a standout record. The song '5. The Best (1989)' marked her triumphant return and rapidly became a super hit. The song won her fans' hearts worldwide by securing the top position on various charts.
| Column 1 | Column 2 |
|---|---|
| Song Name | 5. The Best (1989) |
| Album Name | "Foreign Affair" |
| Released Year | June 1989 |
Apart from the remarkable success, this song also had a significant impact on female empowerment and celebrates women's strength in relationships.
It would be a great idea to listen to the live performances of this song that Tina gave in various parts of the world. It is always inspiring to witness such powerful performances by musical legends like her on full display.
To delve deeper into Tina Turner's illustrious career, you could explore other albums such as Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome, Private Dancer, and Wildest Dreams for more exceptional music that will make you dance your heart out.
Even Tina can't help but feel a little possessive in 'I Don't Wanna Lose You' – and after listening to her belt out this track, we can't really blame her.
6. I Don’t Wanna Lose You (1989)
As Turner's second single from her album "Foreign Affair," the song was an instant success, peaking at No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100. It became an anthem for hopeless romantics everywhere with its relatable message of fear of losing someone they love. A timeless classic that never fails to move people, this track is a prime example of why Tina Turner is considered a music icon.
“Foreign Affair” marked a new phase in her long career with catchy, radio-friendly tracks infused with rock and roll energy. While some fans criticized the shift towards more mainstream sounds, Turner proved that she had what it took to stay relevant even after decades in the industry.
Overall, “I Don’t Wanna Lose You” stands out as one of the best songs of Tina Turner's career due to its powerful vocals and touching sentimentality. For those looking for an emotional ballad to add to their playlists or feelings soothing therapy sessions, this track fits the bill perfectly.
Who needs another hero when we've got Tina Turner's powerful vocals and timeless hits like 'We Don't Need Another Hero'?
7. We Don’t Need Another Hero (1985)
This hit song of Tina Turner's 'Private Dancer' album is all about being heroes to ourselves and not waiting for anyone else. Its emotional and powerful vocals have left a long-lasting impact on music enthusiasts. The music video was set in a battle-torn futuristic world, which gave this track an additional edge.
'We Don’t Need Another Hero (1985)' showcases the iconic musician at her prime with lyrics that encourage everyone to take control of their lives. Turner's ability to deliver empowering messages through her music has made her one of the most influential artists of our time.
Interestingly, this song was featured as the theme for Mad Max: Beyond Thunderdome which helped it gain even more recognition as an intense anthem.
According to Billboard, 'We Don’t Need Another Hero (1985)' peaked at No. 2 on the Hot 100 chart making it one of the greatest hits of Tina Turner's career.
Proud Mary keeps on rollin', but after listening to these other nine Tina Turner songs, it might be time for her to take a break.
8. Proud Mary (1970 and 1993)
For this selection, we have the iconic 'Proud Mary' from Tina Turner's discography. The song was originally recorded by Creedence Clearwater Revival in 1969 and later covered by Tina Turner in 1970. Her rendition became an instant classic, earning her widespread acclaim for her powerful and soulful delivery. She revisited the song in 1993 as part of a live album and managed to breathe new life into the track.
In terms of charts, 'Proud Mary' was one of Tina's biggest hits, reaching number four on the Billboard Hot 100 and also earning her a Grammy win for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance. The song has been covered numerous times over the years, showcasing its timelessness and universal appeal.
Here is a table showcasing some important details about this particular entry:
| Song | Year | Chart Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Proud Mary | 1970 | #4 (Billboard Hot 100) |
| Proud Mary (Live) | 1993 | N/A |
What sets apart the live version from the original studio recording is how Tina infused new energy into 'Proud Mary', thanks to an electric performance that had fans everywhere talking. Her decision to slow down the tempo initially before launching into her trademark roaring vocals made for a memorable moment.
It's worth noting that Turner dedicated much of her work to articulating African American stories and experiences through music, often borrowing from different genres like rock, R&B and soul. With 'Proud Mary', Tina succeeded in fusing these elements seamlessly together while elevating CCR's original version.
Interestingly enough, despite its catchy "Rolling on the river" chorus, John Fogerty of CCR wrote 'Proud Mary' as an ode to basic working concepts such as pulling barges along with mules or transporting goods on riverboats. The song's changing lyrics portray it as an allegory of a woman's life, balancing various duties and responsibilities.
In summary, from its catchy chorus to Tina Turner's powerful performance, 'Proud Mary' deserves all the recognition it gets as one of the best songs from the legendary artist. Just like Tina's voice, this song will take you on a wild ride through the depths of emotion and the heights of pure joy.
9. River Deep, Mountain High (1966)
This hit in 1966, 'The River Runs Deep, The Mountain Is High', can be characterized as one of the best Nina Turner songs ever composed. Its indisputable sound and powerful lyrics continue to resonate with fans even today. This song speaks about a love that is all-consuming and almost unattainable, with the music perfectly capturing the grandeur of such a passion. The horns in this song particularly contribute to its grandness, making it an unforgettable tune that highlights Turner's talent for not only singing but also conveying a wide range of emotions through her voice.
What sets 'The River Runs Deep, The Mountain Is High' apart from other Tina Turner songs is its record-breaking production costs at the time of recording. Phil Spector was behind this ambitious project that required numerous musicians, vast performances choruses, and special effects- costing approximately $22K at a time when such costs were extreme. Though popular in Europe, this track failed to gain momentum in America due to how different it sounded compared to what Americans were accustomed to hearing at the time.
In essence, 'The River Runs Deep, The Mountain Is High' is a testament to how true love can be both intense and challenging all while showcasing Tina Turner's remarkable vocal abilities.
She may not need another hero, but Tina Turner definitely needs this classic song on her all-time top 10 list.
10. What’s Love Got to Do with It (1984)
This famous song, released in 1984 by Tina Turner, is a powerful ode to love and relationships. Its upbeat tempo, strong lyrics, and Turner's unmistakable voice made it an instant classic. The song was written by Terry Britten and Graham Lyle and went on to win several awards, including Record of the Year at the Grammy Awards in 1985.
What set this song apart from other love songs of that era was its straightforward message about the realities of modern relationships. It talked about the difficulties and challenges couples faced in a world where people can be quick to judge and relationships don't always follow conventional paths.
Despite being nearly four decades old, "What's Love Got to Do with It" remains a beloved classic that continues to inspire new generations of musicians. It's been covered by countless singers across different genres and has even been used in films and TV shows.
One interesting fact about this particular song is that Tina Turner originally didn't want to record it. She felt it wasn't her style and preferred more rock-oriented music instead. However, her producer convinced her otherwise, and the rest is history.
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.
