Tina Turner wasn’t just a singer—she was a force of nature. With her unmistakable voice, electrifying stage presence, and a career spanning over five decades, the “Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll” left an indelible mark on music history. From her humble beginnings in Nutbush, Tennessee, to becoming a global icon, Tina’s journey was one of resilience, reinvention, and relentless talent. Her songs are more than just tracks—they’re anthems of strength, passion, and empowerment. Whether she was belting out soulful ballads, high-energy rock hits, or stirring pop classics, Tina had the rare ability to connect deeply with audiences, making each performance unforgettable.

This list of her top 10 most popular songs celebrates the monumental career of a legend who broke barriers and redefined what it meant to be a superstar. These tracks showcase her versatility, from the sultry and introspective “What’s Love Got to Do with It” to the fiery energy of “Proud Mary.” Each song tells a story, cementing her place as one of the greatest performers of all time. So, get ready to relive the magic of Tina Turner’s greatest hits—a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come. Let’s dive into the music that made her an icon!

1. What’s Love Got to Do with It (1984)

Tina Turner’s What’s Love Got to Do with It is more than just a hit—it’s an anthem of resilience and reinvention that defined her legendary comeback in the 1980s. Released in 1984 as the third single from her album Private Dancer, this sultry, synth-laden masterpiece catapulted Tina into global superstardom. The song earned her four Grammy Awards, including Record and Song of the Year, cementing her place in music history. With its smooth, laid-back groove and Tina’s smoky, vulnerable vocals, the track explores emotional detachment and questions love’s place in physical relationships—a bold and confident narrative delivered with her signature magnetism. The song’s ascent to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 made Tina, at 44, the oldest female artist to claim the #1 spot at the time, a milestone that shattered industry norms. Decades later, What’s Love Got to Do with It remains a timeless classic that redefined not only Tina’s career but also the boundaries of pop and soul music.

2. Proud Mary (1971)

Tina Turner’s 1971 rendition of Proud Mary, performed with Ike Turner, is a seismic reinterpretation of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s original. Starting with a slow, sultry intro, the Turners’ version explodes into a high-octane, electrifying finale. Tina’s raw, powerful vocals bring an unparalleled energy to the track, while her commanding stage presence elevates it to a rock-and-roll masterpiece. The song became a staple of her live performances, embodying the unrelenting charisma and stamina that would later earn her the title of the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Nominated for a Grammy, Proud Mary showcased Tina’s ability to take a song and transform it into an unforgettable force of nature. Its dynamic energy and fiery spirit continue to make it one of the most celebrated covers in music history.

3. The Best (1989)

Few songs embody empowerment and devotion as perfectly as Tina Turner’s The Best. Released in 1989 on her Foreign Affair album, this soaring pop-rock anthem blends triumphant brass arrangements with Tina’s larger-than-life vocals. Written by Mike Chapman and Holly Knight, the track is a celebration of unconditional love, resilience, and personal strength. While it didn’t top the U.S. charts, The Best became a massive hit in Europe and remains one of Tina’s most enduring fan favorites. Its infectious chorus and Tina’s fiery delivery elevate it to an anthem that transcends generations. From sporting events to personal playlists, The Best has become a timeless declaration of strength and love, solidifying its place as a hallmark of Tina’s career.

4. Private Dancer (1984)

The title track of Tina Turner’s 1984 album Private Dancer is a haunting, introspective ballad that lingers long after the music fades. Written by Mark Knopfler of Dire Straits, the song tells the story of a disillusioned dancer yearning for freedom and meaning in her life. Tina’s poignant delivery captures the character’s vulnerability and inner strength, creating a deeply moving narrative. The track’s jazzy undertones and atmospheric production heighten its emotional depth, while its themes of independence and self-worth resonated deeply with audiences. Private Dancer not only became a signature song for Tina but also showcased her unparalleled ability to connect with listeners through storytelling.

5. River Deep – Mountain High (1966)

Released in 1966, River Deep – Mountain High marked a significant turning point in Tina Turner’s career. This groundbreaking track, produced by Phil Spector, paired his legendary Wall of Sound with Tina’s fiery, impassioned vocals. The result was a towering anthem that captured the all-consuming intensity of young love. While initially underappreciated in the U.S., the song became a massive hit in Europe and is now regarded as one of the greatest pop records of all time. Its emotional depth and sonic grandeur demonstrated Tina’s ability to channel raw emotion into music, solidifying her place as one of the most dynamic vocalists of her generation.

6. We Don’t Need Another Hero (Thunderdome) (1985)

Tina Turner’s We Don’t Need Another Hero is as cinematic as it is poignant. Released in 1985 as part of the Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome soundtrack, this epic ballad blends grand orchestral strings with atmospheric synths to create an anthem of hope and survival. Tina’s commanding vocals soar above the lush instrumentation, delivering a performance that feels both defiant and deeply human. The song’s themes perfectly complement the dystopian setting of the film, while its universal message of resilience struck a chord with audiences worldwide. A top-10 hit in multiple countries, it remains a powerful testament to Tina’s ability to transcend genres and eras.

7. Better Be Good to Me (1984)

Released in 1984 as part of the Private Dancer album, Better Be Good to Me is a fiery declaration of self-respect and independence. Written by Mike Chapman, Nicky Chinn, and Holly Knight, this high-energy rock anthem pairs electrifying guitar riffs with a driving beat, creating the perfect backdrop for Tina Turner’s gritty, impassioned vocals. The song earned Tina a Grammy for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance and became a mainstay in her live shows. Its unapologetic message of empowerment still resonates today, making it a timeless anthem for anyone who values their worth.

8. Nutbush City Limits (1973)

Nutbush City Limits is one of Tina Turner’s most personal songs, written by the singer herself as a tribute to her small-town roots in Nutbush, Tennessee. Released in 1973, this rock-funk classic combines infectious grooves with Tina’s signature gritty vocals to create a track that celebrates the charm of rural life. Its autobiographical nature adds depth and authenticity, turning it into more than just a hit—it’s a piece of Tina’s history immortalized in sound. With its raw energy and undeniable rhythm, Nutbush City Limits became a fan favorite and a defining moment in Tina’s career.

9. I Don’t Wanna Lose You (1989)

Tina Turner reveals her tender side in the 1989 ballad I Don’t Wanna Lose You. Featured on her Foreign Affair album, this heartfelt ode to love and commitment is delivered with Tina’s trademark warmth and emotional depth. The song’s gentle melody and understated production allow her powerful voice to take center stage, conveying vulnerability and sincerity. Although its success was particularly pronounced in Europe, the track’s timeless message and Tina’s emotive performance make it a standout in her catalog, showcasing her ability to connect deeply with listeners.

10. GoldenEye (1995)

Tina Turner brought her unparalleled charisma to GoldenEye, the theme song for the 1995 James Bond film. Written by Bono and The Edge of U2, this sultry and sophisticated track perfectly embodies the intrigue and glamour of the Bond franchise. Tina’s commanding vocals are layered over a lush orchestral arrangement, creating an atmosphere of danger and allure. The song was both a critical and commercial success, further proving that even after decades in the spotlight, Tina Turner remained a force to be reckoned with. GoldenEye is a shining example of her enduring ability to captivate and thrill audiences.