Women In Music

Forever leaving an indelible mark on the genre with hits like "River Deep - Mountain High" and "Proud Mary," Queen of Rock 'n' Roll, Tina Turner was a magnetic force who shook up the industry for nearly 60 years. On Wednesday, May 24, the beloved singer died at her home in Switzerland after battling a longstanding illness.

Born Anna Mae Bullock on November 26, 1939, in Nutbush, Tennessee, to a family of sharecroppers, Tina Turner started her music career in 1960 after catching the attention of musician Ike Turner.

After enduring a tumultuous and abusive relationship with Ike, Tina Turner summoned the courage to break free and rebuild. Her solo career took flight in the early 1980s, and she released her first solo album, "Private Dancer," in 1984. This album became a global phenomenon, spawning hit singles such as "What's Love Got to Do with It" and "Private Dancer" and earning her numerous awards, including four Grammys.

In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Tina Turner solidified her status as a musical icon with a run of successful albums. "Break Every Rule" (1986), "Foreign Affair" (1989), and "Wildest Dreams" (1996) showcased her vocal range and enduring talent, cementing her position as one of the greatest performers of all time. Tina's live performances were awe-inspiring, captivating audiences with her boundless energy and unmistakable charisma.

Her story has taken center stage in many forms. In 1993, actress Angela Basset played the star in the film "What's Love Got To Do With It," documenting her rise to stardom. "Tina: The Tina Turner Musical" premiered on Broadway in 2018, celebrating her life and career. It garnered critical acclaim, showcasing the power of her music and the resilience of her spirit. In conjunction with the musical, Tina released her autobiography, "My Love Story," in 2018, giving fans an intimate look into her journey.

Her unique blend of rock, soul, and blues transcended genres and inspired countless artists. In recognition of her unparalleled contributions, she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991. She later received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2018. Her influence continues to resonate with new generations of musicians, ensuring that her legacy will endure for years to come.

Tina Turner's career is a testament to the power of resilience, talent, and unwavering determination. From her humble beginnings in Tennessee to becoming a global icon, she has overcome immense challenges and triumphed in the face of adversity. Tina's magnetic stage presence, soulful voice, and electrifying performances have left an indelible mark on the world of music. Her journey inspires us to believe in ourselves, to push boundaries, and to never give up on our dreams. As we celebrate Tina Turner's unparalleled career and life, let us remember her as the unstoppable force of rock 'n' roll, forever etched in the annals of music history.

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USC’s Annenberg recent Inclusion Initiative report explored artists and creators of the top 800 songs on Billboards hot 100 charts spanning from 2012 to 2019. The study found that women made up only 27.1% of artists, 12.5% of songwriters, and an astounding 2.6% are producers. Our goal is to shed light on the many women who are immensely talented music producers, composers, audio engineers, artists, songwriters, and instrumentalists changing the way we experience music for now and the future.

Here is a wrap-up of a few women you should know about that are changing the game in the music industry and paving the way for a new generation of women in music.