Ike Turner Bio, Age, Height, Wife, Children, Songs, Death, Net Worth

Ike Turner Biography

What happened to Ike Turner?

Ike Turner was an American musician, bandleader, songwriter, and producer who helped pioneer rock and roll music. Born on November 5, 1931, in Clarksdale, Mississippi, he developed a passion for music early in life. He mastered both piano and guitar, performing in local clubs during his teenage years.

In his teens, he formed the Kings of Rhythm, a band that laid the foundation for his career. In 1951, they recorded “Rocket 88,” often regarded as one of the first rock and roll songs. Turner also worked as a talent scout and producer, discovering and mentoring artists like B.B. King and Howlin’ Wolf.

In 1956, Ike met Anna Mae Bullock, later known as Tina Turner. Together, they formed the Ike & Tina Turner Revue, which became a major success in the 1960s and 1970s. Their energetic performances produced timeless hits like “Proud Mary” and “Nutbush City Limits.”

However, Ike’s career was overshadowed by drug addiction, legal troubles, and domestic abuse allegations from Tina. The couple divorced in 1978, ending their professional and personal relationship.

After serving time in prison, Ike made a comeback with his 2001 album “Here & Now”. His 2006 release, “Risin’ With the Blues,” earned him his first solo Grammy Award.

Ike Turner died on December 12, 2007, in San Marcos, California. Despite his controversies, he remains a key figure in rock & roll history, celebrated for his groundbreaking musical influence.

Ike Turner Age – How old was Ike Turner?

Ike Turner was born on November 5, 1931, in Clarksdale, Mississippi. He died on December 12, 2007, in San Marcos, California. At his death, he was 76 years old. His lifetime spanned the birth and rise of rock, rhythm & blues, and soul. Despite controversies, his influence on music remains undeniable.

Ike Turner Height: How Tall Was Ike Turner?

Ike Turner stood at 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m) according to records. That height gave him a commanding stage presence during live performances. He often towered over other musicians and collaborators. Thus, his height became part of his memorable image in rock and roll.

Ike Turner’s Spouses | Wives

Ike Turner had a complex personal life marked by several marriages throughout his career. He reportedly married up to 14 times, though not all were legally documented. His most famous marriage was to Tina Turner (Anna Mae Bullock) in 1962, which ended in a highly publicized divorce in 1978. Their union produced some of rock’s most powerful performances but was also marred by abuse and control.

After Tina, Ike married Margaret Ann Thomas in 1981, though the relationship ended later. He then wed Jeanette Bazzell Turner, who performed with him in the 1990s. In 2006, he married Audrey Madison, a talented singer and backup vocalist.

Despite his many relationships, Ike’s marriage to Tina Turner remains the most discussed. It defined both their personal struggles and musical triumphs, shaping his controversial yet influential legacy in the world of rock and roll.

Ike Turner Children

Ike Turner fathered at least six children from various relationships. His sons include Ike Turner Jr. (1958–2025) and Michael Turner, both with Lorraine Taylor. He and Tina Turner had one biological son together, Ronald “Ronnie” Turner.

Also, Ike adopted Craig Raymond Turner, Tina’s eldest, born to Raymond Hill. He had daughters too: Mia Turner with Ann Thomas, and Twanna Turner Melby, with Pat Richard.

Some of his children sadly passed away. For instance, Craig died by suicide in 2018; Ronnie died in 2022. Despite the family’s turmoil, many children pursued music or stayed connected to their parents’ legacy.

Ike Turner & Tina Turner: Love, Music & Tumultuous Marriage

Ike Turner discovered Anna Mae Bullock in the late 1950s and later renamed her Tina Turner. Together, they formed the Ike & Tina Turner Revue, earning hits like “A Fool in Love” and “Proud Mary.”

They married in 1962 (in Tijuana) and officially divorced in 1978. During their marriage, Tina alleged that Ike abused her physically and emotionally over many years.

In 1976, Tina escaped from Ike while on tour. She later described that decision as saving her life. After their split, she built a hugely successful solo career, releasing albums like Private Dancer.

Although Ike continued performing, their relationship remained defined by conflict, power dynamics, and music legacy. Tina later forgave Ike emotionally but refused further collaboration. Their story remains a powerful chapter in rock and roll history.

Lorraine Taylor & Ike Turner: Relationship

Lorraine Taylor (born 1933, died 2019) lived with Ike Turner in common-law relationship during the late 1950s. She gave birth to two of his sons: Ike Turner Jr. and Michael Turner. Meanwhile, Ike began an affair with Tina Turner while still involved with Lorraine. According to some accounts, Tina later moved in and helped raise Lorraine’s children. Lorraine stayed largely out of the spotlight as Ike’s fame grew. Some sources call her Ike’s “ex-wife,” though they may have never legally married. She passed away on January 30, 2019, aged 85. Her role in Ike’s early life shaped his family’s complex dynamics.

Ike Turner’s Songs: Top Tracks & Classic Hits

Ike Turner released many songs that shaped rock & roll, R&B, and soul music. He wrote and produced hits with Tina Turner and the Kings of Rhythm. Below are some of his most famous songs:

• “Rocket ’88” – often called one of the first rock and roll songs.
• “A Fool in Love” – debut single by Ike & Tina Turner from 1960.
• “I Idolize You” – another hit from Ike & Tina Turner in the early 1960s.
• “I’m Blue (The Gong-Gong Song)” – recorded by The Ikettes, written by Ike Turner.
• “Workin’ Together” – lead single by Ike & Tina Turner from the album Workin’ Together in 1970.
• “You Can’t Miss Nothing That You Never Had” – written by Ike, released in the mid-1960s.

Furthermore, “Proud Mary,” “Nutbush City Limits,” and “River Deep – Mountain High” appear often among his top streamed tracks.

These songs show his influence in songwriting, performance, and production. They remain central in discussions of his legacy in music.

Ike Turner’s Albums

Ike Turner released numerous albums with solo work, Ike & Tina Turner, and The Kings of Rhythm. Below are key albums that reflect his style and legacy:

• A Black Man’s Soul (1969) — instrumental, soul-funk sound with The Kings of Rhythm.
• Bad Dreams (1973) — mix of R&B, psychedelic and rock, showcasing Turner’s versatility.
• The Edge (1980) — features Tina Turner and Home Grown Funk; includes cover songs and originals.
• Here and Now (2001) — first major solo blues album in decades; earned critical praise.
• Risin’ With the Blues (2006) — turned into a Grammy-winning work, showing Ike Turner’s maturity in blues.

Furthermore, his discography includes live albums such as The Resurrection: Live Montreux Jazz Festival (2002) and many compilations collecting his early R&B and blues recordings.

These albums show his influence in rock and roll, blues, R&B, and soul. They remain important in music history and continue attracting new listeners.

Ike Turner Death & Cause of Death Explained

Ike Turner died on December 12, 2007, in San Marcos, California. He was 76 years old at the time. According to the San Diego County Medical Examiner, his cause of death was a cocaine overdose.

Furthermore, investigators listed hypertensive cardiovascular disease and pulmonary emphysema as contributing conditions. His autopsy also revealed he was taking Seroquel, a psychotropic medication, at death.

Despite his illness and addiction, he remained musically active until his final years. His death closed a turbulent but influential life in rock and roll and blues history.

Ike Turner’s Meme: Funny Moments & Viral Reaction

Many memes feature Ike Turner through his portrayal in film or reaction images. One popular meme is “Ike Turner Turning Around,” based on Laurence Fishburne’s performance in What’s Love Got to Do with It. It works as a reaction image to express suspicion or disbelief.

In addition, online generators use that meme template for humorous captions about relationships or betrayal. Also, Kapwing hosts a classic Ike Turner meme template, where users insert top and bottom impact text over Ike’s face.

Overall, the Ike Turner meme blends entertainment, pop culture, and his controversial legacy in one viral form.

Ike Turner Movies & Documentaries Featuring His Life and Career

Ike Turner appeared in several movies and documentaries about his musical life and relationship with Tina. Below are key films and works:

• What’s Love Got to Do with It (1993) — biopic about Tina Turner with Laurence Fishburne as Ike Turner.
• Ike & Tina Turner: On the Road: 1971-72 (2012) — documentary showing their touring life and performance.
• Portrait of Ike Turner (2005) — short documentary episode in The Legend of the Groove series.
• Legends in Concert: Ike & Tina Turner (2004) — live concert film showcasing their stage energy.

These films illustrate his musical influence, controversial relationship with Tina, and his performance style. They remain relevant for fans, historians, and music scholars alike.

Ike Turner Net Worth

At the time of his death in 2007, Ike Turner’s net worth was estimated at $500,000. He earned income through music production, songwriting, royalties, and performances. However, legal issues and debts reduced his assets over time. Some sources argue he left behind more in intellectual property and publishing rights.

After his passing, his estate faced legal battles, especially among children and ex-wives.