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Tributes for 'Queen of Rock 'n' Roll' Tina Turner

Tina Turner was one of the biggest recording artists of all time
Tina Turner was one of the biggest recording artists of all time

Tributes have been pouring in for Tina Turner, one of the biggest recording artists of all time, who has died at the age of 83.

She died peacefully after a long illness in her home in Küsnacht near Zurich, Switzerland, her representative said.

Stars including Mick Jagger, Gloria Gaynor, Elton John and model Naomi Campbell were among the first to pay tribute to Turner, widely referred to as the Queen of Rock 'n' Roll, following the announcement.

The Rolling Stones' Sir Mick Jagger, who duetted with Tina Turner during Live Aid in 1985, told of his sadness at the news of her passing.

He wrote on Instagram: "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."

Tina Turner performing with The Rolling Stones in New Jersey in 1981

Canadian singer-songwriter Bryan Adams, who duetted with Turner on It's Only Love, said on Instagram that, "The world just lost one of the greatest performers of all time.

"I'll be forever grateful for the time we spent together on tour, in the studio and as friends. Thank you for being the inspiration to millions of people around the world for speaking your truth and giving us the gift of your voice. My condolences to Erwin and Tina's family. It's Only Love...and that's all."

Bryan Adams posted a photo of him and Tina Turner on Instagram, writing that, "The world just lost one of the greatest performers of all time."

Actress Angela Bassett, who earned an Oscar nomination for her portrayal of Turner in the 1993 film, What's Love Got to Do With It, released a statement saying: "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."

Actress Angela Bassett on stage at the 2021 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, when Tina Turner was inducted into the Hall of Fame

Bassett continued: "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.

"I am honoured to have known Tina Turner. I am humbled to have helped show her to the world. So on today, while we mourn the loss of this iconic voice and presence, she gave us more than we could have ever asked. She gave us her whole self. And Tina Turner is a gift that will always be "simply the best." Angels, sing thee to thy rest … Queen."

Elton John said Turner was a "total legend on record and on stage" in a tribute to the singer following "the saddest news".

"We have lost one of the word's most exciting and electric performers. A total legend on record and on stage. She was untouchable," he wrote, sharing a picture of the pair together.

"Condolences to Erwin and her family. The saddest news."

Tina Turner and Elton John pictured in 1975

Singer Diana Ross posted a photo of her and Turner, writing, "Shocked. Saddened. Sending condolences to Tina Turner's family and loved ones."

US singer and actress Bette Midler wrote on Twitter: "Our beloved #TinaTurner has died.

"From #Nutbush to the top, she was an absolutely brilliant performer and inspiration to us all.

"May flights of angels sing her to her rest, but if I know Tina, she is singing lead."

The charity Women's Aid paid tribute to Turner, who recently supported the UK domestic abuse charity during the fifth anniversary of Tina, the West End musical about her life.

"We are so sad to hear that Tina Turner has passed away today, following long-term illness," the charity tweeted.

"A survivor of domestic abuse who went on to inspire other women, and recently chose to support Women’s Aid for the 5th anniversary of @TinaTheMusical, she will always be #SimplyTheBest."

Women’s Aid previously said it was "meaningful" to have "the story of such a powerful and influential woman supporting our mission".

Tina Turner performing in 1972

Roger Davies, Turner's manager of 30 years, paid tribute to the star, saying: "Tina was a unique and remarkable force of nature with her strength, incredible energy and immense talent.

"From the first day I met her in 1980, she believed in herself completely when few others did at that time.

"It was a privilege and an honour to have been a close friend as well as her manager for more than 30 years.

"I will miss her deeply."


Tina Turner: A trailblazing icon who shone brightly


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