As I continue my research on successful women from St. Louis, leading up to our 2009 AAUW National Convention, I applaud one of the greatest rock and roll artists of all time ─ the legendary Tina Turner. As many people know, Tina Turner, a.k.a. the Queen of Rock and Roll, has been renowned for years as an extraordinary live performer. Not only does Tina perform her songs live, but she does so, even today, while dancing in stilettos. (For the many of us who have ventured out in stiletto heels, we all know how difficult it is to stand in these, let alone, sing and dance in them!)
Turner was born in Nutbush, Tennessee, but her career as a soul singer and live performer started in St. Louis, when she began singing lead vocals with the Ike and Tina Revue. Tina’s success since those early, humble beginnings has soared to fantastic heights and has stretched across the globe.
This year, Turner is 70 years old, and she still has the power to attract audiences of all ages, all over the world. Unfortunately, I have never had the pleasure of seeing Turner live, but I have remained a great, fascinated fan. I’ve enjoyed taking a look back at some highlights throughout her decades-long career:
Tina in the 70s: I Want to Take You Higher
In the 80s: Private Dancer
And in 2008: Steamy Window
With a voice and energy that never ages, Tina Turner is entitled to her reign as the most successful female rock artist in the world. St. Louis should be proud to have her as one of its own.
