Few artists in music history have commanded the stage with as much fire, passion, and resilience as Tina Turner. From her early days with Ike Turner to her record-breaking solo career, she defied the odds, reinvented herself, and became a global icon. Known for her powerhouse vocals, electrifying performances, and unmatched stage presence, Turner didn’t just sing songs—she owned them, transforming every lyric into an emotional powerhouse.
With a career spanning over five decades, she gifted the world with countless hits that blended rock, soul, R&B, and pop, cementing her legacy as one of the greatest performers of all time. Whether it was the smoldering intensity of Private Dancer, the anthemic defiance of What’s Love Got to Do with It, or the raw energy of Proud Mary, Turner’s music resonated across generations.
In this article, we celebrate her 10 most popular songs, the tracks that defined her career and continue to inspire millions. Each song tells a story—of love, power, struggle, and triumph—just like Tina’s own legendary journey. So, turn up the volume and get ready to relive the magic of the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll! 🎤🔥
1. “What’s Love Got to Do with It” (1984)
One of the most iconic songs of the 1980s, What’s Love Got to Do with It became Tina Turner’s defining solo hit and a powerful statement of her career reinvention. Released in 1984 as part of her landmark album Private Dancer, the song’s smooth yet commanding melody captivated audiences, earning Turner her first and only No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100. At 44, she became the oldest female solo artist (at the time) to top the chart, proving that talent and resilience can defy industry norms. The song’s lyrics explore the complexities of love, questioning its emotional weight with a mix of cynicism and defiance. Turner’s husky, soulful vocals add an air of lived-in wisdom, making the song feel deeply personal. Its success not only solidified her as a music legend but also paved the way for future artists to embrace reinvention.
2. “Proud Mary” (1971)
Originally recorded by Creedence Clearwater Revival in 1969, Proud Mary found new life when Ike & Tina Turner released their electrifying version in 1971. What started as a steady rock tune was transformed into an explosive soul-infused performance, beginning with a slow, sultry introduction before erupting into a high-energy, foot-stomping groove. Tina’s raw, powerhouse vocals, combined with the Ike & Tina Turner Revue’s dynamic stage presence, turned the song into a signature hit. The intensity of the performance made it a staple of their live shows, with Tina famously belting out the lyrics while executing her high-energy dance moves. The song earned them a Grammy Award for Best R&B Vocal Performance by a Group in 1972 and remains one of Turner’s most legendary performances.
3. “The Best” (1989)
Few songs radiate confidence and triumph like The Best. Originally recorded by Bonnie Tyler in 1988, Turner’s 1989 rendition became the definitive version, elevating it into an anthem of resilience and self-belief. Featured on her album Foreign Affair, the song’s soaring chorus, uplifting message, and Turner’s commanding vocal delivery made it an instant classic. Over the years, The Best has been used in sports, celebrations, and motivational moments worldwide, cementing its status as a go-to empowerment anthem. Turner’s passionate performance gives the song an electrifying energy, making it one of her most enduring hits.
4. “Private Dancer” (1984)
Mysterious and haunting, Private Dancer stands out as one of Tina Turner’s most thought-provoking songs. Written by Mark Knopfler of Dire Straits, the song was originally intended for his band but was ultimately given to Turner, who turned it into something uniquely her own. Released as the title track of her 1984 comeback album, the song tells the story of a weary dancer navigating a world of loneliness and lost dreams. The hypnotic rhythm, combined with Turner’s deeply expressive vocals, creates an atmosphere of quiet desperation. The song’s introspective lyrics and moody instrumentation give it a cinematic quality, making it one of the most emotionally charged tracks in her catalog.
5. “We Don’t Need Another Hero (Thunderdome)” (1985)
As both a music and film icon, Tina Turner dominated the 1980s, and We Don’t Need Another Hero is a testament to that era. Featured in the 1985 film Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome, where Turner also starred, the song is a sweeping, cinematic ballad filled with dramatic orchestration and an impassioned vocal performance. Its lyrics reflect themes of survival, strength, and independence, perfectly aligning with the film’s post-apocalyptic storyline. The song became a global hit, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, and further cemented Turner’s legacy as a larger-than-life performer.
6. “Better Be Good to Me” (1984)
A fiery mix of rock and pop, Better Be Good to Me is a song that encapsulates Turner’s fearless, no-nonsense attitude. Originally recorded by the band Spider in 1981, Turner’s version, released on Private Dancer, took the song to another level. With its driving beat, sharp lyrics, and electrifying energy, the track became an anthem of self-respect and empowerment. Turner’s fierce, passionate delivery adds an urgency that makes it impossible to ignore. The song’s bold message and powerhouse performance earned her a Grammy Award for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance in 1985, reinforcing her ability to command both rock and pop audiences.
7. “Typical Male” (1986)
Fun, flirty, and full of sass, Typical Male showcased Tina Turner’s lighter, more playful side. Released in 1986 as the lead single from Break Every Rule, the song featured a catchy, synth-driven melody and tongue-in-cheek lyrics about a woman outsmarting a man who underestimates her intelligence. With its irresistible hook and Turner’s charismatic vocal delivery, the song climbed to No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, proving she could dominate the charts with both fierce rock anthems and playful pop hits. Its infectious energy made it one of her most memorable songs of the late ‘80s.
8. “I Don’t Wanna Fight” (1993)
One of Tina Turner’s most emotionally charged ballads, I Don’t Wanna Fight was released in 1993 as part of the soundtrack for What’s Love Got to Do with It, the biographical film about her life. The song’s poignant lyrics capture feelings of exhaustion, heartache, and the desire to move on, echoing Turner’s own real-life struggles. With its smooth, melancholic melody and deeply heartfelt delivery, the song resonated with fans on a profound level. It became a Top 10 hit in both the U.S. and the UK, further solidifying Turner’s ability to connect with audiences through raw emotion.
9. “River Deep – Mountain High” (1966)
Considered one of the most ambitious recordings in pop history, River Deep – Mountain High was produced by Phil Spector and released in 1966. The song, performed by Ike & Tina Turner, featured Spector’s signature Wall of Sound production, layering instruments to create a massive, immersive sonic experience. Although it initially struggled in the U.S., the song became a major hit in the UK and later gained recognition as one of the greatest songs of all time. Turner’s powerful, impassioned vocals soar over the dramatic build-up, making it an unforgettable classic that showcases her vocal prowess.
10. “Steamy Windows” (1989)
With its bluesy groove and sultry lyrics, Steamy Windows is one of Tina Turner’s most playful and infectious songs. Written by Tony Joe White and featured on her 1989 album Foreign Affair, the song captures the thrill of a passionate romance, using fogged-up car windows as a cheeky metaphor. The combination of swampy guitar riffs, a driving rhythm, and Turner’s signature raspy vocals makes the song an irresistible blend of rock and soul. Over the years, it has remained a fan favorite, proving that Turner could deliver sensual, fun, and high-energy performances with effortless charm.
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.
