US president Joe Biden and former presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton have joined those paying tribute to the “once-in-a-generation talent” of Tina Turner.
Multiple Grammy-award winner Turner, famous for hits including The Best and Proud Mary, died “peacefully” on Wednesday at the age of 83. Following the announcement former and current US leaders came together with fans and members of the entertainment industry to remember her.
Biden hailed the singer’s “remarkable” personal strength in addition to having “changed American music forever”.
READ MORE: Tina Turner’s tragic past from her abusive marriage to the death of her two sons
“Before she was the Queen of Rock and Roll, Tina Turner was a farmer’s daughter in Tennessee. As a child, she sang in the church choir before becoming one of the most successful recording artists of all time,” Biden said.
“In addition to being a once-in-a-generation talent that changed American music forever, Tina’s personal strength was remarkable.
“Overcoming adversity, and even abuse, she built a career for the ages and a life and legacy that were entirely hers. Jill and I send our love and prayers to her husband Erwin, the rest of the Turner family, and fans around the world who are mourning today for the woman they agree was ‘simply the best’.”
Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama shared a joint statement to Twitter and Instagram, which described Turner as “raw, powerful and unstoppable”.
“She was unapologetically herself, speaking and singing her truth through joy and pain; triumph and tragedy,” they said. “Today we join fans around the world in honouring the Queen of Rock and Roll, and a star whose light will never fade.”
