Ike Turner

Ike Turner Artistfacts

  • November 5, 1931 - December 12, 2007
  • Turner made many claims in interviews: he said that he first had sex at the age of 6, and that he was married 14 times.
  • He was an accomplished boogie-woogie pianist and Blues guitarist who was one of the '50s most sought-after musicians and bandleaders.
  • He discovered Tina Turner, leading to very successful Ike and Tina Turner Revue. Their marriage, however, was disastrous, and after Tina enjoyed a career resurgence in the '80s and published her autobiography (which was made into a movie), Ike was defined as a wife-beater and constantly had to answer questions regarding Tina's alleged spousal abuse rather than discuss his place in music history. Responding to questions about the abuse, Ike usually admitted he slapped Tina, but claimed it was far from abusive and was also mutual.
  • Tina was originally merely Ike's houseguest after becoming pregnant by the group's saxophone player.
  • He was serving a prison term In California when he was inducted into the Rock Hall Of Fame in 1991. Accepting the award for him was Phil Spector.
  • He died of a cocaine overdose on December 12, 2007. An autopsy showed that a long history of cardiovascular disease and emphysema contributed to Turner's death. >>
    Suggestion credit:
    Bertrand - Paris, France, for all above

Comments

Be the first to comment...

Editor's Picks

Mike Campbell

Mike CampbellSongwriter Interviews

Mike is lead guitarist with Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers, and co-writer of classic songs like "Boys Of Summer," "Refugee" and "The Heart Of The Matter."

Michael Franti

Michael FrantiSongwriter Interviews

Franti tells the story behind his hit "Say Hey (I Love You)" and explains why yoga is an integral part of his lifestyle and his Soulshine tour.

Kerry Livgren of Kansas

Kerry Livgren of KansasSongwriter Interviews

In this talk from the '80s, the Kansas frontman talks turning to God and writing "Dust In The Wind."

Charlie Benante of Anthrax

Charlie Benante of AnthraxSongwriter Interviews

The drummer for Anthrax is also a key songwriter. He explains how the group puts their songs together and tells the stories behind some of their classics.

Jonathan Edwards - "Sunshine"

Jonathan Edwards - "Sunshine"They're Playing My Song

"How much does it cost? I'll buy it?" Another songwriter told Jonathan to change these lyrics. Good thing he ignored this advice.

Ramones

RamonesFact or Fiction

A band so baffling, even their names were contrived. Check your score in the Ramones version of Fact or Fiction.