Tina Turner, born Anna Mae Bullock on November 26, 1939, is an American-born Swiss singer, songwriter, and actress. With a career spanning over six decades, Turner is widely regarded as one of the greatest performers in the history of music. Known for her powerful voice, electrifying stage presence, and iconic performances, Turner has achieved legendary status in the world of popular music.
Turner rose to fame in the 1960s as part of the musical duo Ike & Tina Turner, alongside her then-husband Ike Turner. The duo achieved success with hit songs such as “River Deep – Mountain High” and “Proud Mary.” However, it was Turner’s solo career that truly solidified her status as a music icon.
In the 1980s, Turner experienced a resurgence in popularity with her solo albums “Private Dancer” (1984) and “Break Every Rule” (1986). These albums produced numerous hit singles, including “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” “Better Be Good to Me,” and “We Don’t Need Another Hero (Thunderdome).” Turner’s soulful vocals, combined with her electrifying stage presence and dynamic performances, captivated audiences around the world and earned her critical acclaim.
Throughout her career, Turner has received numerous awards and accolades, including 12 Grammy Awards. In 1991, she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and in 2005, she received a Kennedy Center Honor for her contributions to American culture. Turner’s influence extends beyond music, as she has also made a significant impact in the realms of fashion, film, and philanthropy.
In addition to her musical achievements, Turner’s personal journey has inspired millions. She has overcome adversity, including a tumultuous marriage, financial struggles, and health challenges, to emerge as a symbol of resilience, strength, and empowerment.
Tina Turner’s legacy as a pioneering artist and cultural icon is indelible. Her timeless music continues to inspire and uplift audiences around the world, cementing her status as one of the greatest performers of all time.
1. GoldenEye
“GoldenEye” is a song performed by Tina Turner, released in 1995 as the theme song for the James Bond film of the same name. The song was written by Bono and The Edge of the rock band U2.
“GoldenEye” marked Tina Turner’s return to the music scene after a brief hiatus and became one of her signature songs. The track is characterized by its dramatic and sultry vocals, along with its powerful instrumentation and memorable melody.
The lyrics of “GoldenEye” reference the themes and plot elements of the James Bond film, including espionage, betrayal, and danger. The song’s chorus, with its iconic refrain “GoldenEye, I’ll show you heaven, GoldenEye, golden, golden,” captures the intrigue and allure of the spy genre.
“GoldenEye” received critical acclaim and was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the charts in several countries. The song’s music video, featuring scenes from the film interspersed with footage of Tina Turner performing, further contributed to its popularity.
“GoldenEye” remains one of Tina Turner’s most beloved songs and is often included in her live performances. It is also regarded as one of the standout theme songs in the James Bond franchise, beloved by fans of both the music and the films.
2. River Deep – Mountain High
“River Deep – Mountain High” is a song originally recorded by Ike & Tina Turner in 1966. Written by Phil Spector, Jeff Barry, and Ellie Greenwich, it was produced by Spector and released as a single. The song is notable for its powerful vocals and dramatic production, characteristic of Phil Spector’s “Wall of Sound” technique.
“River Deep – Mountain High” is a soulful and energetic track that showcases Tina Turner’s incredible vocal range and emotive delivery. The lyrics express the depth of the singer’s love and devotion, comparing it to the grandeur of natural wonders like rivers and mountains.
Despite receiving critical acclaim, “River Deep – Mountain High” did not achieve commercial success in the United States upon its initial release. However, it was more successful in Europe, particularly in the United Kingdom, where it reached the top five on the charts.
Over the years, “River Deep – Mountain High” has become regarded as one of Ike & Tina Turner’s signature songs and a classic of soul music. It has been covered by numerous artists and featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials, solidifying its status as a timeless and influential track in popular music.
3. Proud Mary
“Proud Mary” is a classic rock song originally written by American musician John Fogerty and first recorded by his band, Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR), in 1969. However, it was Tina Turner’s electrifying rendition of “Proud Mary” that became the definitive version of the song.
Tina Turner released her cover of “Proud Mary” in 1971 as a single from her album “Ike & Tina Turner’s Workin’ Together.” Produced by Ike Turner, the song featured Tina’s powerful vocals and Ike’s driving guitar work, creating a dynamic and energetic performance that captivated audiences.
“Proud Mary” is characterized by its infectious rhythm, catchy melody, and soulful vocals. The lyrics tell the story of a woman reflecting on her life’s journey, with the metaphor of a riverboat journey down the Mississippi River symbolizing resilience, perseverance, and the pursuit of dreams.
Tina Turner’s rendition of “Proud Mary” was a commercial success, reaching the top five on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and becoming one of her signature songs. The song’s energetic performance and iconic “Rollin’ on the river” chorus have made it a favorite among fans of rock and soul music for decades.
Over the years, “Proud Mary” has been covered by numerous artists and has been featured in various films, television shows, and commercials. However, Tina Turner’s powerful interpretation remains the definitive version of the song, solidifying her legacy as one of the greatest performers in the history of music.
4. What’s Love Got to Do with It
“What’s Love Got to Do with It” is a song by American-born Swiss singer Tina Turner, released in 1984 as the lead single from her fifth solo album, “Private Dancer.” Written by Terry Britten and Graham Lyle, the song marked a significant turning point in Turner’s career, propelling her to international superstardom.
“What’s Love Got to Do with It” is a pop and rock song with elements of R&B and soul. It features a distinctive synth-driven melody and a catchy chorus that showcases Turner’s powerful vocals. Lyrically, the song explores the theme of love and relationships, questioning the role of love in matters of the heart.
The song’s release marked a major comeback for Turner, who had struggled to achieve solo success after leaving her abusive marriage and former music partner Ike Turner. “What’s Love Got to Do with It” became a massive commercial success, topping the charts in several countries, including the United States, where it earned Turner her first and only number-one single on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
In addition to its commercial success, “What’s Love Got to Do with It” earned critical acclaim and won several awards, including Grammy Awards for Record of the Year and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance in 1985. The song’s empowering message and Turner’s dynamic performance resonated with audiences around the world, solidifying her status as a music icon.
“What’s Love Got to Do with It” remains one of Tina Turner’s most iconic and beloved songs, and its timeless appeal has ensured its enduring popularity across generations.
5. Private Dancer
“Private Dancer” is a song performed by Tina Turner, released in 1984 as the title track from her album of the same name. The song was written by Mark Knopfler of the rock band Dire Straits.
“Private Dancer” is a mid-tempo pop rock song with elements of blues and soul. The lyrics tell the story of a woman who works as a “private dancer,” entertaining clients in a strip club, and reflect on her experiences and desires for a better life.
The song’s chorus, with its memorable refrain “I’m your private dancer, a dancer for money, I’ll do what you want me to do,” captures the theme of empowerment and autonomy amidst a challenging situation.
“Private Dancer” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the charts in several countries and becoming one of Tina Turner’s signature songs. It received critical acclaim for its powerful vocals, emotive delivery, and catchy melody.
The song’s music video, featuring Turner performing in various settings, further contributed to its popularity and helped establish Turner as a solo artist in her own right.
“Private Dancer” remains a favorite among fans of Tina Turner’s music and is often included in her live performances. Its themes of resilience, independence, and self-determination continue to resonate with audiences today.
6. Better Be Good to Me
“Better Be Good to Me” is a song by Tina Turner, released in 1984 as the second single from her album “Private Dancer.” Co-written by Nicky Chinn, Mike Chapman, and Holly Knight, the song blends elements of rock, pop, and R&B, showcasing Turner’s powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence.
“Better Be Good to Me” is a high-energy anthem that addresses themes of love, independence, and self-respect. The lyrics convey a message of empowerment, with Turner warning her partner that they had better treat her right if they want to keep her in their life. The song’s catchy chorus and driving rhythm make it a standout track on the album, and it became one of Turner’s signature songs.
Upon its release, “Better Be Good to Me” was a commercial success, reaching the top ten on the charts in several countries, including the United States, where it peaked at number five on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s music video, featuring Turner in a powerful performance, received heavy rotation on MTV and helped solidify her status as a music icon.
“Better Be Good to Me” earned Turner a Grammy Award for Best Rock Vocal Performance, Female in 1985, further cementing its status as one of her most celebrated songs. Its empowering message and infectious groove have ensured its enduring popularity, making it a favorite among fans of rock and pop music.
7. The Best
“The Best” is a song performed by Tina Turner, released in 1989 as a single from her album “Foreign Affair.” The song was written by Mike Chapman and Holly Knight.
“The Best” is an upbeat and empowering rock anthem that celebrates love and self-confidence. The lyrics express the narrator’s unwavering devotion to their partner, proclaiming them to be “the best” and promising to stand by them through thick and thin.
The song’s chorus, with its infectious refrain “You’re simply the best, better than all the rest,” has become iconic and is often cited as one of Tina Turner’s most memorable moments.
“The Best” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the charts in several countries and becoming one of Turner’s signature songs. It received critical acclaim for its powerful vocals, energetic production, and uplifting message.
The song’s music video, featuring Turner performing against a backdrop of dynamic imagery, further contributed to its popularity and helped solidify Turner’s status as a music icon.
“The Best” remains a favorite among fans of Tina Turner’s music and is often included in her live performances. Its themes of love, strength, and resilience continue to resonate with audiences around the world.
8. Typical Male
“Typical Male” is a song by Tina Turner, released in 1986 as the lead single from her album “Break Every Rule.” Written by Terry Britten and Graham Lyle, the song is a catchy pop-rock anthem with elements of R&B, showcasing Turner’s powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence.
“Typical Male” explores the dynamic of a tumultuous relationship, with Turner singing about the stereotypical behaviors often associated with men. The lyrics playfully poke fun at gender roles and expectations, while also conveying a message of empowerment and self-assurance. The song’s upbeat tempo, infectious melody, and catchy chorus make it a memorable and energetic addition to Turner’s discography.
Upon its release, “Typical Male” was a commercial success, reaching the top ten on the charts in several countries, including the United States, where it peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s music video, featuring Turner in various glamorous outfits and energetic dance sequences, received heavy rotation on MTV and helped further solidify her status as a music icon.
“Typical Male” remains one of Tina Turner’s most recognizable and enduring songs. Its playful lyrics, infectious groove, and dynamic vocal performance continue to captivate audiences and make it a favorite among fans of pop and rock music.
9. I Don’t Wanna Fight
“I Don’t Wanna Fight” is a song performed by Tina Turner, released in 1993 as the lead single from her album “What’s Love Got to Do with It: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack.” The song was written by British singer-songwriter Steve DuBerry, Lulu, and Billy Lawrie.
“I Don’t Wanna Fight” is a soulful ballad that explores themes of conflict and reconciliation in relationships. The lyrics express the narrator’s desire to avoid confrontation and seek harmony, despite the challenges and disagreements they may face with their partner.
The song’s chorus, with its poignant refrain “I don’t wanna fight no more, I don’t know what we’re fighting for,” captures the emotional turmoil and longing for peace that the narrator experiences.
“I Don’t Wanna Fight” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the charts in several countries and becoming one of Tina Turner’s most successful solo singles. It received critical acclaim for its powerful vocals and emotive delivery, as well as its relatable and heartfelt lyrics.
The song’s music video, featuring Turner performing against a backdrop of dramatic visuals, further contributed to its popularity and helped solidify Turner’s status as a music legend.
“I Don’t Wanna Fight” remains a favorite among fans of Tina Turner’s music and is often included in her live performances. Its timeless message of love, forgiveness, and understanding continues to resonate with audiences around the world.
10. We Don’t Need Another Hero
“We Don’t Need Another Hero (Thunderdome)” is a song by Tina Turner, released in 1985 as the theme song for the film “Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome,” in which Turner also starred alongside Mel Gibson. Written by Terry Britten and Graham Lyle, the song is a powerful rock ballad with elements of pop and R&B, featuring Turner’s soulful vocals and emotive delivery.
“We Don’t Need Another Hero (Thunderdome)” is a stirring anthem that reflects the themes of survival, resilience, and hope depicted in the film. The lyrics convey a message of empowerment and defiance, with Turner singing about the desire to break free from the constraints of a harsh and oppressive world. The song’s soaring chorus and anthemic melody make it a memorable and impactful addition to Turner’s repertoire.
Upon its release, “We Don’t Need Another Hero (Thunderdome)” was a commercial success, reaching the top ten on the charts in several countries, including the United States, where it peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s music video, featuring Turner in elaborate costumes and dramatic scenes inspired by the film, received heavy rotation on MTV and helped further solidify her status as a music icon.
“We Don’t Need Another Hero (Thunderdome)” remains one of Tina Turner’s most iconic and enduring songs. Its powerful message, emotive performance, and memorable melody continue to resonate with audiences and make it a favorite among fans of pop and rock music.
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.
