Tina Turner Rock n’ Roll Queen Honored with New Statue in Her Tennessee Hometown
A Vibrant Tribute to Tina Turner Unveiled in Brownsville, Tennessee
Honoring the Rock ‘n’ Roll Queen in Her Hometown
A striking 10-foot statue of the legendary Tina Turner, the “Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll,” has been unveiled in Brownsville, Tennessee, the rural area where she spent her formative years. The unveiling ceremony, attended by fans and locals, celebrated the enduring legacy of the Grammy-winning artist who graced the world with her electrifying performances and powerful vocals.
The Artistic Vision Behind the Statue
Sculpted by artist Fred Ajanogha, the statue captures Tina Turner’s dynamic presence, including her signature wild hairstyle and poised microphone-holding stance. Ajanogha, inspired by Turner’s on-stage movement and charisma, designed the sculpture to reflect her influence in both music and performance art. The statue, standing proudly near the West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center, was cast in bronze following an intricate clay modeling process in Atlanta.
A Community Celebration in Brownsville
The statue’s unveiling was part of the annual Tina Turner Heritage Days, a festival honoring Turner’s childhood in Tennessee before her global fame. Located about an hour’s drive from Memphis, Brownsville has approximately 9,000 residents and is near Nutbush, where Turner attended school. This connection has turned the town into a significant pilgrimage site for her fans.
Contributions and Support from Local Donors
Support for the statue came from around 50 donors, including Ford Motor Co., which generously contributed $150,000. Ford’s commitment to the local community is further exemplified by its ongoing construction of an electric truck plant in nearby Stanton. Turner’s legacy continues to resonate deeply within the community, evidenced by such dedicated support.
Remembering Tina Turner’s Legacy
Tina Turner, who passed away on May 24, 2023, at the age of 83, left an indelible mark on the music world. Her hit songs like “Nutbush City Limits,” “Proud Mary,” and “Private Dancer” have become timeless classics. Turner’s tenacity also shone through in her solo career following a tumultuous marriage to Ike Turner, with the chart-topping “What’s Love Got to Do With It” highlighting her successful reinvention.
A Draw for Fans and Enthusiasts
The newly installed statue stands close to a museum that celebrates Turner’s rich life and career. Housed at the West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center, this museum is set inside the renovated Flagg Grove School—a historic one-room building where Turner was once a student. This monument, together with the museum, offers fans a glimpse into the early life and lasting impact of Tina Turner in her beloved rural hometown.
