Nairobi News

Tina Turner, known as the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll, died at 83 after a long illness.

The iconic singer, who captivated audiences worldwide with soulful hits such as ‘River Deep – Mountain High’, ‘The Best’ and ‘What’s Love Got to Do With It’, triumphed over early hardship and rose above domestic abuse to become one of the most beloved voices in the music industry.

Tina Turner passed away at her home in Küsnacht, near Zurich, Switzerland.

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A representative announcing her death said the world had lost a music legend and a role model. They praised her indomitable spirit and boundless vitality and acknowledged how Tina Turner captivated millions of fans and inspired countless artists for generations to come.

Tina Turner’s private memorial service will be attended by close friends and family who will bid farewell to the legendary singer. Tributes have poured in from a grieving music world, including her manager of thirty years, Roger Davies, who described her as a “unique and remarkable force of nature”.

He marvelled at her unwavering self-belief, especially at a time when few others shared that conviction. A close friend and manager for over three decades, he was deeply saddened by the star’s passing.

The White House issued a statement mourning the “incredibly sad news” and recognising Tina Turner’s remarkable strength and lasting impact on American music. US President Joe Biden noted her extraordinary personal strength, highlighting her ability to overcome adversity and abuse to forge a career and legacy.

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Fellow singers joined in the tributes, with Gloria Gaynor describing Turner as an “iconic legend” who paved the way for women in rock music, regardless of race.

Mariah Carey remembered her as a “trailblazer” and “survivor” who inspired women. Diana Ross expressed shock and sadness, while Sir Elton John hailed her as “a total legend on record and on stage”.

The Rolling Stones’ Sir Mick Jagger, who had the honour of performing alongside Tina Turner at Live Aid in 1985, expressed his sadness at the news of her death.

Oprah Winfrey, who considered Tina Turner a role model, described her as the “eternal goddess of rock ‘n’ roll” and praised her for not only influencing her, but inspiring the world. In a heartfelt tribute, Winfrey reflected on her journey from fan to friend and the profound impact Turner had on her life.

Actor Angela Bassett, who portrayed Turner in a 1993 film about her life, paid tribute to her resilience and the positive change she brought to the world. Bassett praised Turner’s courage in sharing her story, her commitment to staying true to herself and her determination to make space in rock and roll for herself and others who looked like her. She acknowledged Turner’s ability to show those living in fear what a future of love, compassion and freedom could look like.

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