Remembering the Late Tina Turner, the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll
It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the passing of the iconic Tina Turner, who left us on May 24 at her home in Switzerland, after battling health issues for several years. The news of her death has sparked an outpouring of tributes for the legendary singer, known as “the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll.” Turner’s incredible journey to the pinnacle of the entertainment industry was marked by numerous hardships and challenges, most of which she overcame with resilience and determination.
Tina Turner’s life took a significant turn when she divorced Ike Turner and decided to start anew. However, this decision appeared to strain her relationship with Ike’s children, whom she had adopted during her marriage. One of these children was Ike Turner Jr., the biological son of Ike Turner and Lorraine Taylor, who went on to become a Grammy-winning producer and performer. His path to success mirrored his stepmother’s, filled with obstacles and setbacks.
As a child, Ike Jr. experienced the dissolution of his parents’ relationship and witnessed his father starting a new chapter with Tina Turner. When the couple married, Tina became a stepmother to Ike Jr. and his brother, Michael. While their father had been through multiple marriages, Tina was the one they identified with as their steadfast maternal figure.
Unfortunately, Ike and Tina’s marriage was plagued by violence and abuse, leading Tina to gather the strength to leave Ike and rebuild her life. This departure deeply affected Ike Jr., not only because Tina had played a significant role in guiding him towards a career in the music industry, but also because she had been a constant presence in his life.
Reflecting on his past, Ike Jr. once revealed, “My father took me out of school when I was 13… I ended up overseeing his recording facility and accompanying them on tour. My father used to make me count the money they made on tour.” Tina’s departure marked a turning point in their relationship, and over time, the connection between Tina and Ike Jr., as well as his brother Michael, deteriorated to the point where they lost touch with their stepmother.
Ike Jr. recalled the last time he spoke with Tina was around the year 2000, and he doubted whether his siblings had heard from her since then. Despite these circumstances, Ike Jr. found success in his own right, producing an album for his father that earned a Grammy in 2007.
In 1995, Tina Turner moved to Switzerland and eventually became a Swiss citizen after marrying Erwin Bach in 2013. The couple settled in a house on Lake Zurich, where Tina embraced a quieter life away from the spotlight.
Tina Turner’s indomitable spirit, resilience, and unmatched talent left an indelible mark on the music industry. She will always be remembered as the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll, and her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. May she rest in peace.