With her strong voice, captivating onstage presence, and astonishing career that spanned many decades, Tina Turner, the famous rock’n’roll singer, made an imprint on the music business that can never be erased. While Tina first rose to fame as a member of the dynamic duet with Ike Turner, she eventually forged her own route to glory. We examine the 20 finest songs that best capture Tina Turner’s incredible career in music as we honour the production’s fifth anniversary in the West End.
20. “Stop the Wedding/Please, Please, Please” by Ike and Tina Turner, (1970)
Unquestionably, Ike and Tina Turner had a significant influence on the 1960s music landscape, thanks in large part to their constant travelling on the chitlin’ circuit. This outstanding medley, which was captured live in the mid-1960s and released in 1970, perfectly encapsulates their performing skills.
19. “Workin’ Together” by Ike and Tina Turner, (1970)
The title track from their 1970 album, “Workin’ Together,” stands out as a mid-tempo masterpiece even though they are known for their high-octane soul. Despite its improbable beginnings in Ike Turner’s pen, it expresses a call for world peace that is heightened by Tina’s urgent rasp.
18. “A Fool in Love” by Ike and Tina Turner, (1960)
As soon as she began working with Ike, Tina’s star power was obvious. Tina’s vocal talent almost overwhelms the recording equipment on their first song, “A Fool in Love,” portending her future supremacy on stage.
17. “Up in Heah” by Ike and Tina Turner, from (1972)
The background vocals on “Up in Heah” combine gospel with southern soul and rock. The song, which Tina wrote, has a more violent twist that is similar to “Son of a Preacher Man,” but with the gender roles reversed.
16. Tina Turner’s (1989) song “The Best”
Tina Turner‘s captivating performance helped “The Best” become a worldwide phenomenon. Tina’s version succeeded where Bonnie Tyler’s initial attempt failed, cementing its place in many people’s hearts.
15. “Typical Male” by Tina Turner, from (1986)
From her album “Break Every Rule,” Tina’s song “Typical Male” demonstrates her desire to top “Private Dancer’s” popularity. It maintains its strength thanks to its coquettish appeal and the chorus’s subtle cynicism.
14. “Sweet Rhode Island Red” by Ike and Tina Turner, released in (1974).
After the popularity of “Nutbush City Limits,” “Sweet Rhode Island Red” was unable to match that of its predecessor. However, it has an unrelenting rhythm fueled by guitar and electric piano and enhanced by Tina’s stunning voice.
13. “We Don’t Need Another Hero (Thunderdome)” by Tina Turner, from (1985)
With screeching guitars, ethereal synthesisers, and a children’s choir, “We Don’t Need Another Hero” goes all-out for epicness. Even though the song’s lyrics are closely related to the Mad Max movie, Tina Turner’s powerful performance brings the song to life.
12. Tina Turner’s (1996) song “Whatever You Want”
Tina’s albums became more traditional as the 1980s and 1990s merged into one another. But Trevor Horn’s sweeping “Whatever You Want,” which remains as a tribute to her continuing skill.
11. “Sexy Ida Parts One and Two” by Ike and Tina Turner (1974)
In spite of the couple’s turbulent personal lives, “Sexy Ida,” written by Tina and featuring Marc Bolan on guitar during Part Two, emits a humid, funky funk.
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10. “Let’s Stay Together” by Tina Turner (1983)
Al Green’s original is reimagined in Tina’s 1980 comeback smash “Let’s Stay Together” with chilly electronica, a different verse sequence, and a change in tone from sweet loyalty to frantic begging. It perfectly captures Tina’s unwavering drive for achievement.
9. Tina Turner’s (1995) song “GoldenEye”
The Edge and Bono unexpectedly stepped up to perform the Bond theme for “GoldenEye” after Ace of Base pulled out. Tina’s performance perfectly conveys the sass of the song, and her soaring high note at the finale is still a standout.
8. BEF, “Ball of Confusion” (1982), with Tina Turner
Tina’s career turned on this song, which resulted in a new record deal and the creation of “Private Dancer.” With Tina’s vocals coming through, it turns the Temptations classic into an edgy synth-driven funk.
7. Tina Turner’s (1976) song “Acid Queen”
Elton John received praise for his adaptation of “Pinball Wizard” in Ken Russell’s movie “Tommy,” but Tina’s version of “Acid Queen” stands out as a daring reinvention that gives the Who’s original song an unashamed soul.
6. “Private Dancer” by Tina Turner (1984)
Mark Knopfler’s composition “Private Dancer” has a sleek yet melancholy resonance that connects with listeners. In this sad song that suggests unrealized goals, Tina’s vocal talent shines.
5. “Whole Lotta Love” by Tina Turner (1975)
When it comes to Ike and Tina’s rock covers, Tina’s solo rendition of “Whole Lotta Love” stands out. She transforms the swaggering Led Zeppelin original into an eerie, string-heavy funk that is full of depth and yearning.
4. “River Deep – Mountain High” by Ike and Tina Turner, released in (1966).
“River Deep – Mountain High” epitomises Phil Spector’s wall of sound and demonstrates Tina’s unmatched vocal power. There is no disputing the song’s power, regardless of whether you think it is excess or brilliance.
3. “Proud Mary” by Ike and Tina Turner, from (1971)
Tina’s version of “Proud Mary” is superior to Creedence Clearwater Revival’s original. The spoken-word introduction and her aggressive demeanour laid the groundwork for a memorable performance.
2. “Nutbush City Limits” by Ike and Tina Turner (1973)
Tina’s birthplace is honoured, and “Nutbush City Limits” brilliantly captures the vibe of 1973. It’s a fantastic piece of music with a funky clavinet, a compressed guitar sound, and synthesised sounds.
1. “What’s Love Got to Do With It” by Tina Turner, from (1984)
Despite Tina’s music evolving, “What’s Love Got to Do With It” continues to be a unique gem. Bucks Fizz and Cliff Richard made a mistake by rejecting it since Tina’s performance personifies the cynicism and tenacity contained in the lyrics.
Tina Turner’s lasting contribution to music is evidence of her extraordinary talent, adaptability, and unflappable spirit. She continually gave unforgettable performances that won millions of hearts, starting with her early years with Ike Turner and continuing into her solo career. Her incredible career is only partially represented by these 20 finest songs, but it has left us with lingering memories of a real rock’n’roll legend. We can only hope that her songs will continue to motivate future generations as we celebrate Tina: The Tina Turner Musical’s ongoing triumph.
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