Beyoncé has put pen to proverbial paper in order to pay tribute to Tina Turner, the Queen of Rock’n’Roll, who died this week aged 83.
Queen Bey, who infamously performed with the “It’s Only Love” singer at the 2008 Grammys, took to her official website on Thursday (May 25) to post the moving open letter, where she made reference to the impact that Turner had on her career, and on the careers of other Black women performers.
“My beloved Queen, I love you endlessly,” she wrote. “I’m so grateful for your inspiration, and for all the ways you have paved the way. You are strength and resilience. You are the epitome of power and passion.
“We are all so fortunate to have witnessed your kindness and beautiful spirit that will forever remain. Thank you for all you have done.”
Beyoncé’s mother, Tina Lawson, matched her daughter’s tribute with an Instagram post of her own.
“I remember this day like it was yesterday,” she wrote. “It was the day that Beyoncé was to rehearse with Tina Turner for the Grammys. We were both so excited and when she arrived and we were told that she was in the other rm we all witnessed Beyoncé, turning into a five-year-old actually skipping across the floor to embrace her.
“I was the biggest fan and had my own story of when I met Tina in 1972 Beyonce always talked about the two Tinas that she loved and admired. She had done a tribute to her years before at the Kennedy honors and we had a chance to meet her there.”
She continued: “She was lovely. She was bigger than life, but this was different. She actually got to perform side-by-side with Tina turner! They had so much laughter those days and it is one of Beyonce’s best memories. The world is a less better place without this legendary, gorgeous resilient woman.
“When I need to get my super strength together and know that I can overcome anything I think of Tina Turner who started over in her mid 40’s and became the biggest super star. It always gives me hope that it’s not about the age it’s about the person. Today I celebrate this amazing, beautiful, resilient queen she will be sadly missed. She was “Simply The Best.”
Tina Turner (real name Anna Mae Bullock) died peacefully at her home in Küsnacht, Switzerland on Wednesday (May 24), as confirmed by her official Instagram page.
“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Tina Turner,” a statement read. “With her music and her boundless passion for life, she enchanted millions of fans around the world and inspired the stars of tomorrow. Today we say goodbye to a dear friend who leaves us all her greatest work: her music. All our heartfelt compassion goes out to her family. Tina, we will miss you dearly.”
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