Rock icon Tina Turner (83) passed away after a long illness

Singer Tina Turner has passed away. The singer died after a long illness at her home in Küsnacht in Switzerland. She was 83 years old.

Turner, who stood out during her performances until old age for her energy, her powerful voice, her wild hair, her high heels and her miniskirt, was also called the Queen of Rock ‘n Roll. Initially, she performed with her husband Ike. After their divorce, she continued on her own. She became known for songs like Private Dancer, What’s Love Got To Do With It and (Simply) The Best.

Tina Turner was Anna Mae Bullock’s stage name. She was born in Brownsville, Tennessee.

In the 1960s she formed the duo Ike & Tina Turner with her then husband. One of their biggest hits was River Deep-Mountain High.

Their success with their own songs waned in the late 1960s. Turner was abused by her husband. That got worse as he used more cocaine.

In 1971 they had their biggest hit with Proud Mary, written by singer-songwriter John Fogerty. They received a Grammy Award for it a year later.

The abuse got worse and after their divorce in 1978 she went solo. With 200 million records sold, she became the best-selling female rock artist. She also sold a record number of concert tickets.

Here’s a look back at Tina Turner’s life:

The White House called Tina Turner’s death “incredibly sad news” and a great loss to those who loved her and to the music industry.

There are many reactions to her death on social media. For example, Billy Corgan of the Smashing Pumpkins calls her “legendary”. Vocalist Bryan Adams says: “I am eternally grateful to her for the time we spent together on tour, in the studio and as friends. Thank you for inspiring millions around the world by speaking the truth and for sharing of your vote with us.”

Mick Jagger also shared his condolences on Twitter: