Beyoncé paid tribute to her musical inspiration Tina Turner, who passed away on Wednesday at 83. The “Irreplaceable” singer shared a rare message on her website, recalling their iconic performance at the 2008 Grammys and praising Turner’s legacy.
Beyoncé has always admired Tina Turner as a role model and a legend. She grew up listening to Turner’s songs and admiring her powerful voice and stage presence. In 2005, she had the honor of performing “Proud Mary” for Turner at the Kennedy Center Honors, where she expressed her admiration for the “Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll.”
Three years later, Beyoncé joined the “Proud Mary” singer on stage at the 2008 Grammys for a duet of the same song. They dazzled the audience with their matching metallic outfits, energetic choreography, and flawless vocals. Beyoncé bowed to Turner at the end of the performance, showing her respect and gratitude.
“My Beloved Queen”
On Thursday, May 25, Beyoncé posted a photo of that moment on her website and a heartfelt letter to her “beloved queen.” She wrote:
“My beloved Queen,
I love you endlessly. I am so grateful for your inspiration and all the ways you have paved the way. You are strength and resilience, you are the epitome of power and passion. We are all so fortunate to have witnessed your kindness and beautiful spirit that will forever remain. Thank you for all you have done.”
Beyoncé’s mother, Tina Knowles-Lawson, also shared her memories of meeting Turner with her daughter on Instagram. She said Beyoncé was “skipping across the floor” to embrace Turner when rehearsing for the Grammys. She added that it was “one of Beyonce’s best memories.”
Beyoncé’s tribute comes as she is currently on her highly-anticipated Renaissance World Tour, which recently kicked off in Sweden. The “CUFF IT” singer also broke a record with the largest audience on her tour.
The Loss of a Legend
On Wednesday, May 24, 2023, Tina Turner, real name Anna Mae Bullock, passed away at 83 after a “long illness” in her home in Kusnacht near Zurich, Switzerland. On March 9, the legendary singer opened up to fans about her battle with kidney disease in honor of International Kidney Day.
One of rock and soul music’s greatest icons, Tina Turner was a 12-time Grammy winner and a two-time Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee. She is well-known for her hits such as “River Deep — Mountain High,” “Proud Mary,” and “What’s Love Got To Do With It?” The Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll left a seven-decade legacy, paving the way for divas like Beyoncé, Rihanna, Jazmine Sullivan, and more.
Tina Turner was survived by her second husband, Erwin Bach, 67, and two of her four children.
Harry Belafonte Passes Away At 96
Tina Turner is not the only legend we lost this year. Iconic entertainer and activist Harry Belafonte also passed away at 96 in March. Belafonte was known for his music, movies, and humanitarian work.