Tina Turner is an iconic American singer, songwriter, and actress who is widely known for her powerful vocals and electrifying performances. However, what many may not know is that she has also lived an incredible life abroad. From her early beginnings in Nutbush, Tennessee to her rise to fame and eventual move to Switzerland, Tina Turner’s story is one of perseverance, triumph, and cultural exploration. In this blog, we will delve into the life of Tina Turner and explore her experiences living abroad.
Tina Turner, the legendary singer and performer, passed away on the 24th May 2023 at the age of 83. She leaves behind a legacy of incredible music, electrifying performances, and a trailblazing career that inspired generations. Born Anna Mae Bullock in Nutbush, Tennessee, Turner rose to fame in the 1960s as part of the duo Ike and Tina Turner. Together, they created hits like “Proud Mary” and “River Deep – Mountain High.” However, their tumultuous marriage and Ike’s abusive behaviour led to their separation and divorce in 1978. Turner then embarked on a solo career, releasing iconic songs like “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” “Private Dancer,” and “Simply the Best.” She also became known for her electrifying live performances and dynamic stage presence. Throughout her career, Turner faced numerous challenges, including racism, sexism, and ageism. However, she persevered and continued to break barriers, becoming the first Black woman to appear on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine and winning numerous awards, including 12 Grammy Awards.
Beyond her music, Turner was also a survivor and an inspiration to many. She overcame the challenges of her past and used her platform to advocate for women’s rights and raise awareness about domestic violence.
Many people are unaware that Turner was actually an American immigrant who gave up her citizenship and spent much of her life living abroad. Turner was born in Tennessee, in 1939. She began singing in church and eventually formed a musical group with her sister, but it wasn’t until she met musician Ike Turner that her career took off. The two became romantically involved and eventually married, and together they created a string of hit songs in the 1960s and 1970s. However, their relationship was tumultuous, and Turner eventually left Ike in the mid-1970s. She continued to pursue her music career, but it wasn’t until she moved to Europe in the 1980s that she experienced a resurgence in popularity. She became a citizen of Switzerland in 2013, renouncing her American citizenship in the process. Turner cited a variety of reasons for her decision to live abroad, including a desire for privacy and a sense of freedom from the constraints of the American music industry. She also spoke about feeling more accepted and appreciated in Europe, where she was celebrated for her talent and charisma. Turner moved to the tranquil town of Küsnacht near Zurich in 1995 with her longtime partner, German music executive Erwin Bach. Despite her fame, she lived a relatively private and normal life in the local community. In 2013, the same year she married Bach, Turner renounced her United States citizenship to become a Swiss national. They resided in the luxurious Villa Algonquin, a lakeside estate described as a “cartoon palace” for its whimsical and opulent design. The couple maintained a strong presence in the community, with Turner sponsoring local Christmas lights and having a rescue boat named in her honor. Despite her passing, Tina Turner’s impact on music and popular culture remains profound. Her performances continue to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide, ensuring her legacy endures forever.