Like many of today’s biggest musicians, Beyoncé paid tribute to her idol Tina Turner. Following the death of the Queen of Rock and Roll on May 24, the 41-year-old singer – currently in the midst of her Renaissance World Tour – released a statement on her website.
“My beloved queen. I love you endlessly,” she wrote. “I’m so grateful for your inspiration, and 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 has long been open about her admiration for Turner and how the rock legend paved the way for her. While honoring Turner at the 2005 Kennedy Center Honors, the “Cuff It” singer said, “Every now and then, when I think of inspiration, I think of the two Tinas in my life – that’s my mother, Tina, and of course, the amazing Tina Turner.” During her tribute, Beyoncé recalled the first time she saw Turner perform: “I never in my life saw a woman so powerful, so fierce, so fabulous – and those legs!”
Three years later, Beyoncé and Turner teamed up for a showstopping performance of “Proud Mary” at the 2008 Grammys. And for Turner’s 80th birthday in 2019, Beyoncé shared a handwritten note on her website (via Metro UK). “To my queen Tina Turner: I have loved you for a lifetime. You have paved the way and made it possible for another country girl to go after her dreams,” Beyoncé wrote. “I’m so grateful for you. I am blessed to have two Tina’s showing me the way. With every ounce of my love and admiration. Happy, happy, happy, happy birthday.”
Turner died at age 83 after a long battle with an ongoing illness. Her death was announced in a post on her Facebook page, which read, “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Tina Turner. 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.” A rep confirmed the news to Reuters, saying Turner died peacefully at home in Switzerland. Reps for Turner did not respond to POPSUGAR’s request for comment. Turner is survived by her husband, Erwin Bach, and sons Ike Jr. and Michael Turner.
Related: 8 of Tina Turner’s Most Legendary Songs
