The light in the world dimmed a little bit today as Tina Turner, a multitalented singer, songwriter, author, actress, and of course — dancer, passed away at age 83. Her powerhouse status as an artist, woman, and mother is something almost unexplainable — and you’d be hard-pressed to find a person alive who didn’t feel inspired by her story, talent, and passion.
As news of her death found its way to the ears and eyes of those who loved her, social media tributes began pouring out; people who knew her and even those who didn’t were sharing beautiful tokens of appreciation, adoration, and devastation at her loss. Everyone from former president Barack Obama to the immensely talented Forest Whitaker, and many more, have poured their hearts out in honoring the legend that will always be Tina Turner.
Angela Bassett, who played Tina Turner in a 1993 biopic, shared a beautiful and sentimental statement about Turner using her pain and heartache to “change the world” (via Variety).
“How do we say farewell to a woman who owned her pain and trauma and used it as a means to help change the world? Through her courage in telling her story, her commitment to stay the course in her life, no matter the sacrifice, and her determination to carve out a space in rock and roll for herself and for others who look like her, Tina Turner showed others who lived in fear what a beautiful future filled with love, compassion, and freedom should look like. Her final words to me – for me – were “You never mimicked me. Instead, you reached deep into your soul, found your inner Tina, and showed her to the world.” I shall hold these words close to my heart for the rest of my days. I am honored to have known Tina Turner. I am humbled to have helped show her to the world. So on today, while we mourn the loss of this iconic voice and presence, she gave us more than we could have ever asked. She gave us her whole self. And Tina Turner is a gift that will always be “simply the best.” Angels, sing thee to thy rest…Queen.”
Barack Obama called Turner unapologetically herself, someone who spoke and sang through her joy and her pain.
Beyoncé turned her website into a tribute to Turner, calling her a queen and sharing that she’ll love her without ceasing.
Forest Whitaker shared that in honoring her, we should take a moment to consider her greatness and resilience, two traits she had in droves.
Oprah’s tribute to Turner will bring a tear to your eyes, not that the others haven’t — but there’s something vulnerable and kind in how she describes starting as a fan of Turner’s before turning into a friend.
Darius Rucker knows a thing or two about soulful music, an iconic voice, and a storytelling heart — and he only does because of Turner’s inspiration in his life.
Jennifer Hudson thanked Turner for all she gave the world, reminding all of us how gracefully Turner lived with all of the good and evil she faced.
President Biden pointed out Turner’s humble beginnings as a farmer’s daughter in Tennessee. She worked hard to achieve the dreams she chased, and even though it wasn’t always easy — it was a worthy endeavor.
Kerry Washington shared that she used to stand around making Tina Turner impressions for anyone around, feeling so inspired that she couldn’t help but channel the icon.
George Takei quoted an iconic Turner song to pay homage to her, and he easily sums up her light and love.
Of course, no one paid better homage to Turner than she did herself when she spoke about what she hoped her legacy would be. The faith Turner had in herself and the power she knew she held in her hands was something immeasurable; Turner did get better, and all because she worked hard to ensure her dreams would be hers.
We’re sending our thoughts to Turner’s loved ones during this difficult time, and may we never forget that when you believe in yourself and work hard for your dreams, anything is possible.
