A flood of sorrow, and deluge of tributes swept across the world entertainment circuit, Tuesday, as the legendary Tina Turner bade the world bye.
The Grammy-winning performer, according to reports, died at her home in Küsnacht near Zurich, Switzerland, after a long illness. Her spokesperson, Bernard Doherty, who broke the sad news, said the legend died at 83 but did not reveal the cause of death.
“With her (death), the world loses a music legend and role model,” Doherty said.
The announcement triggered a storm of tributes from across the world. Tributes poured from musicians, actors and athletes, even politicians.
Elton John said on Instagram: “We have lost one of the world’s most exciting and electric performers. A total legend on record and on stage. She was untouchable. Condolences to Erwin and her family. The saddest news.”
Angela Bassett, who played Turner in the 1993 film “What’s Love Got to Do With It” said: “How do we say farewell to a woman who owned her pain and trauma and used it as a means to help change the world? Through her courage in telling her story, her commitment to stay the course in her life, no matter the sacrifice, and her determination to carve out a space in rock and roll for herself and for others who look like her, Tina Turner showed others who lived in fear what a beautiful future filled with love, compassion, and freedom should look like. Her final words to me — for me — were “You never mimicked me. Instead, you reached deep into your soul, found your inner Tina, and showed her to the world.” I shall hold these words close to my heart for the rest of
my days.”
This is how Actor Maria Shriver mourned the passing of one of the greatest performers of all time on Twitter: “Tina Turner was iconic, talented, and fierce. What a journey. What a life, filled with great highs and great lows. She left an abusive marriage. She found love again. She made her way in this world, selling millions of albums. She became a mother, she experienced terrible sadness, and she still kept going. She brought joy to so many, even when she was experiencing such tragedy. I’ve always admired her. I first met her as a teenager and followed her throughout her inspiring life. May we honor Tina, and may we continue to play her music loudly and dance!”
Mick Jagger, who performed with Turner during a show in 1985 and toured with the band in the 1960s. Here is his tribute:
“I’m so saddened by the passing of my wonderful friend Tina Turner. She was truly an enormously talented performer and singer. She was inspiring, warm, funny and generous. She helped me so much when I was young and I will never forget her.”
Barack Obama on Twitter, wrote: “Tina Turner was raw. She was powerful. She was unstoppable. And she was unapologetically herself—speaking and singing her truth through joy and pain; triumph and tragedy. Today we join fans around the world in honoring the Queen of Rock and Roll, and a star whose light will never fade.”
President Joe Biden, also on Twitter, said of Turner: “In addition to being a once-in-a-generation talent that changed American music forever, Tina’s personal strength was remarkable. Overcoming adversity, and even abuse, she built a career for the ages and a life and legacy that were entirely hers.”
NBA legend Magic Johnson, posted a photo of him and Turner on Twitter, wrote: “Rest in peace to one of my favorite artists of all time, the legendary queen of rock n’ roll Tina Turner. I’ve seen her many many times and hands down, she gave one of the best live shows I’ve ever seen. She always gave you your money’s worth.”
Alicia Keys said on Instagram:
“What a woman, what a life, what a warrior!!! The day I met you Ms Tina, I couldn’t believe I was standing in the presence of your greatness!! (Thanks to my big sis @oprah!!!) I got to celebrate and thank you for all the love you’ve poured out around u. The songs you sang gave us courage to step out and be our full selves. You are a fierce force as a woman and a performer! All of these things have been beacons of light for not only me, but all the people around the world finding ourselves and our fearlessness, through our vulnerability!!”
Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist Flea said on Instagram: “Truest rocker. Greatest performer. Most profoundly sexy woman. What a dynamo, what a story, what a heroine. Always an energy inspiration for me, always tapping the source. Tina forever. Man. Always been in awe of her and the infinite power.”
Musician Diane Warren wrote on Twitter: “A Survivor and a Badass. Every note she sang shook the room and shook your soul. There will never be another like her. Shake the roof off of Heaven Tina Turner.”
Singer Ciara said: “Heaven has gained an angel. Rest in Paradise Tina Turner. Thank you for the inspiration you gave us all.”
Singer Erykah Badu also said: “Cultural Icon down. Safe Journey Anna Mae Bullock. You were HERE.”
