Born in 1931 in Clarksdale, Mississippi, he spent decades as a bandleader, composer, conductor, singer, record producer, and pianist throughout the United States.
Early Career and Kings of Rhythm
Turner learned to play piano in his youth, studying under Pinetop Perkins. During his teens, he joined the Tophatters in Clarksdale and later established the Kings of Rhythm. Before gaining national prominence, he worked as a radio DJ in Clarksdale and served as a talent scout and producer for Sun Records and Modern Records. In 1954, he moved to East St. Louis, where his band became a prominent fixture in the local music scene.
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Take the IQ test →Success with Ike & Tina Turner
In 1960, Turner formed the Ike & Tina Turner Revue, which achieved significant success as a soul and rock crossover act. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, the ensemble performed extensively and reached a wide audience through recordings and live tours. Their collaboration earned critical recognition, including a Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals in 1972 and an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991.
Later Years and Career Resurgence
Following a period of personal struggle, including drug offenses and a prison sentence, Turner returned to his blues roots during the final decade of his life. He released the albums Here and Now in 2001 and Risin' with the Blues in 2006. His late-career work received further accolades, culminating in a Grammy Award for Best Traditional Blues Album in 2007. He died later that year in San Marcos.
Fast facts
- Born: 1931, Clarksdale
- Died: 2007, San Marcos
- Primary occupations: Musician, record producer, songwriter
- Notable band: Ike & Tina Turner
- Grammy Awards won: 5
- Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction: 1991
- Citizenship: United States
Questions readers ask
What early song is attributed to Turner?
He is associated with the song "Rocket 88," recorded by Jackie Brenston and his Delta Cats.
Did Turner receive competitive Grammy Awards?
Yes, he won the Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals in 1972 and the Grammy Award for Best Traditional Blues Album in 2007.
Achievements
- Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals — 1972
- Grammy Award for Best Traditional Blues Album — 2007
- Grammy Hall of Fame — 2003
- Instruments: guitar, piano and voice
- Genres: rhythm and blues, blues and funk
