http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20071212/ap_on_en_mu/obit_turner;_ylt=AvdYq2313VMr0J5PALNdMbGs0NUE SAN DIEGO - Ike Turner, whose role as one of rock's critical architects was overshadowed by his ogrelike image as the man who brutally abused former wife and icon Tina Turner, died Wednesday at his home in suburban San Diego. He was 76. "He did pass away this morning" at his home in San Marcos, in northern San Diego County, said Scott M. Hanover of Thrill Entertainment Group, which managed Turner's musical career. There was no immediate word on the cause of death, which was first reported by celebrity Web site TMZ.com. Turner managed to rehabilitate his image somewhat in his later years, touring around the globe with his band the Kings of Rhythm and drawing critical acclaim for his work. He won a Grammy in 2007 in the traditional blues album category for "Risin' With the Blues." But his image is forever identified as the drug-addicted, wife-abusing husband of Tina Turner. He was hauntingly portrayed by Laurence Fishburne in the movie "What's Love Got To Do With It," based on Tina Turner's autobiography.
I'll never forget his funny interview when asked about beating Tina Turner... Ike - "The only times I ever hit her was when she was looking sad." Reporter - "Did she look happier after you hit her?" Ike - (contemplates...) "Well, yeah, she did."
Here's a separate interview from the one I quoted earlier where he expands on his reasoning. This is from Time magazine.
I heard him on Howard Stern a couple of weeks/months ago. Bragged about his sexual exploits til the end.
I know Ike Turner is supposed to be this rock 'n roll monster and all but I always liked him anyway. I don't condone violence towards women or drug megabuse but goddammit Ike Turner was bad.
Que En Paz no Descanse. May he n.R.I.P. I know that sounds mean, but... damn, that was a damn good movie. "Anna, just take the cake..."
Cocaine is a helluva drug. I'll always have respect for him for "Rocket 88", even though I do not condone violence against women. RIP, Ike.
(from memory... may not be exact...) Terry Gross: Now Ike, I want to ask you about Tina Turner's new book... Ike Turner: Terry Gross, that book is all lies! Terry Gross: So you've read Tina's book? Ike Turner: No! Terry Gross, why would I read lies?!
He died of a cocaine overdose. http://www.usatoday.com/life/people/2008-01-16-ike-turner_N.htm?csp=34
