Did you know about the fascinating world of Tina Turner's relationship with country music? The legendary artist, who sadly passed away at the age of 83, left an indelible mark on the music industry, but her country album, "Tina Turns the Country On!," remains a lesser-known gem among contemporary country music enthusiasts. Despite the album's release in 1974, Nashville and the genre itself have yet to fully embrace Turner, even as they have celebrated other country-adjacent icons.
Produced by Nashville's own Tom Thacker, "Tina Turns the Country On!" was Turner's debut solo studio album, released on United Artists Records while she was still part of the Ike & Tina Turner Revue. The album served as a platform for Ike Turner to introduce his talented wife to a broader audience. Although it didn't achieve significant commercial success, the album garnered Turner a well-deserved Grammy Award nomination.
Recorded at Bolic Sound in Inglewood, California, the album features Turner's soulful interpretations of country and folk classics by renowned artists such as Dolly Parton, Hank Snow, and Kris Kristofferson. Turner's powerful vocals breathe new life into these timeless songs. One standout track is "Bayou Song," an original composition written specifically for Turner by P.J. Morse. .
As Tina Turner's solo career soared to new heights, her influence on country music became increasingly evident. Her ability to seamlessly blend country and soul can be heard in later songs like "I Can't Stand the Rain," where she expertly infuses a bluesy feel with a touch of twang. Turner's storytelling prowess, exemplified in tracks like "Private Dancer," resonates with the essence of country music.
Moreover, Tina Turner's impact on country music extends beyond her own artistry. Contemporary country music trailblazers like LeAnn Rimes, Brandi Carlile, Rissi Palmer, Amythyst Kiah, and Mickey Guyton credit Turner as an influential figure who paved the way for their own careers within the genre. Her ability to wield various musical styles with authority and command the stage as a solo artist continues to inspire artists across all genres.
