When a song inspires a blockbuster movie, you know it’s a major hit. In 1993, “What’s Love Got to Do With It” did just that, telling the story of the incomparable “Queen of Rock & Roll” herself, Tina Turner. The track not only revived but redefined Turner’s career, making the film’s name perfectly fitting.
“What’s Love Got to Do With It” topped the Billboard Hot 100 for three weeks in 1984 and remained on the charts for 28 weeks overall. It earned Turner three Grammys for Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. Surprisingly, Turner initially rejected the song, calling it “terrible.” However, her journey has shown just how far she’s come.
Before Turner, both Cliff Richard and Donna Summer turned down “What’s Love Got to Do With It,” written by Terry Britten and Graham Lyle. Rolling Stone ranked it as #134 on their list of the “500 Greatest Songs of All Time,” praising it as one of the great comebacks in rock history. Turner was at a low point in her career before the song’s release, having been dropped by her label and enduring years of abuse in her marriage to Ike Turner.
A turning point came in 1983 when David Bowie helped Turner get signed to Capitol. Her fifth solo album, “Private Dancer,” which featured “What’s Love Got to Do With It,” marked a triumphant phase in her career. While the song was her first and only #1 hit, Turner went on to have four more top 10 hits in the following years, solidifying her legendary status even after her death in 2023.
The legacy of “What’s Love Got to Do With It” continues to resonate, showcasing Turner’s resilience and talent in the face of adversity. In a world where success is hard-won, Turner’s story stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and the ability to rise above challenges.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.