25 May 2023 , 08:55
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President Joe Biden has joined those paying tribute to the "once-in-a-generation talent" that was Tina Turner.
The Queen of Rock 'n' Roll, real name Anna Mae Bullock, died peacefully on Wednesday at the age of 83 following a long illness.
The iconic performer was at her home in Küsnacht near Zurich, Switzerland, at the time of her death.
Biden has praised Tina's "remarkable strength" as he reflected on the legacy she leaves behind.
"Before she was the Queen of Rock and Roll, Tina Turner was a farmer's daughter in Tennessee," he said in a statement.
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"As a child, she sang in the church choir before becoming one of the most successful recording artists of all time.
Tina Turner died at the age of 83 (Redferns)
She was described as a once-in-a-lifetime talent (Fotex/REX/Shutterstock)"With 12 Grammy Awards, she was the only woman to win in the pop, rock, and R&B categories, a signal of her versatility, creativity, and broad appeal.
"Millions flocked to her concerts. Her high-octane dance performances were legendary.
"And her iconic hits – including "Proud Mary," "The Best," "What’s Love Got to Do with It" – continue to be treasured, and sung at full volume, by generations of fans."
Biden continued: "In addition to being a once-in-a-generation talent that changed American music forever, Tina’s personal strength was remarkable.
"Overcoming adversity, and even abuse, she built a career for the ages and a life and legacy that were entirely hers."
President Joe Biden shared a heartfelt tribute (Getty Images)He then sent a message of condolence to Tina's family and her legion of fans.
"Jill and I send our love and prayers to her husband Erwin, the rest of the Turner family, and fans around the world who are mourning today for the woman they agree was "simply the best"."
Vice President Kamala Harris took to Twitter to remember the Private Dancer hitmaker as a woman who "inspired millions".
She wrote: "Tina Turner was a spectacular light whose life was a testament to all those who believe in what can be, unburdened by what has been.
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"From Nutbush, TN to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, her strength, voice, and signature moves inspired millions. Tina Turner was simply the best."
Tina was 'simply the best', Kamala Harris said (Nick Ut/AP/REX/Shutterstock)Former president Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama shared a joint statement on social media.
They described Tina as "powerful and unstoppable".
"Tina Turner was raw. She was powerful. She was unstoppable. And she was unapologetically herself—speaking and singing her truth through joy and pain; triumph and tragedy.
"Today we join fans around the world in honoring the Queen of Rock and Roll, and a star whose light will never fade."
Bill Clinton, who served as president from 1993 to 2001, recalled meeting the singer at her concert and again on her 67th birthday.
"I loved Tina Turner and will never forget meeting her when she came to Little Rock for a concert after releasing Private Dancer in 1984," he tweeted.
Barack Obama said the singer was 'powerful' (AFP via Getty Images)"We met again on her 67th birthday in St Petersburg, where she and Elton John sang for a charity event.
"She still had it, talent, style, energy and authenticity. A priceless gift to music lovers everywhere. May she rest in peace."
Tina had suffered ill health in recent years and the news of her death was shared on her official Instagram page.
The statement read: "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Tina Turner. With her music and her boundless passion for life, she enchanted millions of fans around the world and inspired the stars of tomorrow.
"Today we say goodbye to a dear friend who leaves us all her greatest work: her music. All our heartfelt compassion goes out to her family. Tina, we will miss you dearly."