In music, few names shine as brightly as that of Tina Turner. She carved her name into the annals of music history with her electrifying stage presence, soul-stirring voice, and unrivaled ability to captivate audiences.

She left an indelible mark on the industry from her early days as one-half of the dynamic duo Ike & Tina Turner to her phenomenal solo career. As we remember this legendary icon, we delve into the depths of her musical journey and honor her immense influence.

Join us as we rank her top 5 songs, chosen by Tina herself, in a heartfelt tribute to a trailblazer who defined resilience, passion, and the power of music.

5. Private Dancer

Private Dancer was the title track for Tina Turner's 1984 comeback album. It explores the emotional journey of a performer, highlighting the sacrifices and struggles faced in the pursuit of fame. The song's introspective lyrics and Tina's powerful vocals struck a chord with listeners.

It received critical acclaim and won her a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. Released during a transformative period in her life, the track mirrored her journey of breaking free from an abusive marriage and reclaiming her identity as an influential solo artist.

4. We Don't Need Another Hero

Featured in the film “Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome” (1985), “We Don't Need Another Hero” became an anthem of hope and resilience. The song conveys a message of standing up against oppression and searching for a better future.

It received widespread acclaim and earned Tina Turner a Grammy Award nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. With its powerful message and infectious chorus, this song became an anthem for resilience and hope in the face of a dystopian world.

3. Proud Mary

Initially recorded by Creedence Clearwater Revival, Tina Turner's rendition of “Proud Mary” became one of her most iconic songs. It tells the story of a woman leaving her past behind and embracing a new beginning.

Her energetic performance and soulful vocals elevated the track to legendary status. “Proud Mary” is regarded as one of the greatest rock songs ever and received critical acclaim.

2. What's Love Got to Do With It

Released in 1984, “What's Love Got to Do With It” marked Tina Turner's triumphant comeback as a solo artist. The song's introspective lyrics explore the complexities of love and relationships. Her powerful delivery of the lyrics adds an extra layer of conviction, infusing the song with a sense of empowerment and independence.

The track became a massive hit with its catchy melody, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100. It won several Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.

1. The Best

“The Best” is an empowering anthem celebrating strength, resilience, and self-belief. Released in 1989, the song became one of Tina Turner's signature tracks. Its catchy chorus and powerhouse vocals made it a fan favorite. “The Best” achieved commercial success, reaching high chart positions globally.

While it didn't receive any major awards, the song is a testament to her enduring legacy and ability to inspire audiences worldwide. This song became an anthem of self-empowerment, mirroring her determination to prove that age is just a number and that her talent and spirit were at their peak, solidifying her status as an enduring icon.

Listen to the playlist

Tina Turner curated a playlist on Spotify of her favorites for us to enjoy. You can find the playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0SpfTvHwJ4lxu4FEjabdbp?si=65a0a8f735d947da

Listen to her self-curated Spotify playlist

Her Journey

Born Anna Mae Bullock in Nutbush, Tennessee, Tina faced numerous challenges and hardships throughout her early life, including poverty, racial discrimination, and severe misogyny. However, her extraordinary talent and unyielding determination propelled her forward. From singing in small clubs to joining forces with Ike Turner, Tina's voice soon became a force to be reckoned with.

Later, she broke free from that abusive marriage and embarked on a solo career; her resilience and unparalleled stage presence captivated audiences worldwide. With chart-topping hits, electrifying performances, and a larger-than-life persona, she became an international icon, an inspiration for generations, and a living testament to the transformative power of music.

Her incredible feats include selling over 200 million records, winning 8 Grammies, and being in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Tina Turner passed away on May 24, 2023, in Switzerland.