Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · September 30, 2025 · Entertainment

Tina Turner Statue Sparks Outrage: 'Simply the Worst' Tribute!

Tina Turner (pictured in December 1977)  was known as 'the Queen of Rock 'N Roll' but many fans think that the latest tribute to her will have her rolling in her grave

Tina Turner Statue Sparks Outrage: Is This Really the Queen of Rock 'n' Roll?

In a shocking turn of events, the small town of Brownsville, Tennessee has unveiled a bronze statue of music legend Tina Turner, but fans are left scratching their heads and wondering if this is really the best tribute to her legacy. The 10-foot-tall sculpture, designed by sculptor Fred Ajanogha, depicts Turner in a mini dress, singing and dancing with an air of sass and glamour. But for many, it's a far cry from the iconic image they hold dear.

The statue has been met with a mixture of confusion, amusement, and outright disgust on social media, with fans taking to Twitter (now rebranded as X) to express their outrage. "This ain't Tina Turner, this is Temu Turner!" joked one fan, while another quipped, "That statue is Simply the Worst." Even Huffington Post deputy editor Philip Lewis couldn't resist chiming in, sharing a photo of the statue with the caption: "The Queen of Rock 'n' Roll gets a rather... interesting tribute."

The music icon - who passed away aged 83 in May 2023 - was the subject of a newly erected statue in her hometown of Brownsville, Tennessee which has left many furious

But what's behind this ill-conceived tribute? According to Ajanogha, his goal was to capture Turner's powerful presence and liken her iconic hair to "the mane of a lion." Sounds like a noble effort, but did he really get it right?

Tina Turner, the undisputed Queen of Rock 'n' Roll, left an indelible mark on music history when she passed away in May 2023 at the age of 83. But before her passing, she revealed that she wanted to be remembered as a trailblazer, not just for her music but also for inspiring other women to chase their dreams and strive for success on their own terms.

In an interview with The Guardian just six weeks before her death, Turner spoke candidly about what scared her most: nothing. "This is life's full adventure," she said, "and I embrace and accept every day with what it brings." When asked how she wanted to be remembered, she replied without hesitation: "As the Queen of Rock 'n' Roll."

The 10-foot-tall bronze sculpture was designed by sculptor Fred Ajanogha as it depicted the legend singing and dancing in a mini dress

Turner's remarkable story is one of triumph over adversity. Born Anna-Mae Bullock in Brownsville, Tennessee in 1939, she rose from humble beginnings and a tumultuous childhood marked by abuse to become a global superstar. With her fiery personality and undeniable talent, she electrified audiences alongside her then-husband Ike Turner, but behind the scenes, their marriage was far from harmonious.

Turner's courage to speak out about the brutal abuse she suffered at the hands of her husband is a testament to her strength and resilience. In her own words, "I wanted to stop people from thinking that Ike & Tina was so positive, that we were such a great team." Her bravery paved the way for countless women who followed in her footsteps.

Throughout her illustrious career, Turner won eight Grammy Awards (from 25 nominations) and three lifetime Grammy Awards. She stood shoulder-to-shoulder with rock legends like Mick Jagger and David Bowie, earning a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and cementing her status as an icon of music history.

So, what do you think about this statue? Does it capture the essence of Tina Turner's spirit and legacy, or is it a misfire? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!

In related news, we take a look back at some of the most iconic moments from Turner's career. From her electrifying performances to her unforgettable music videos, relive the magic that made her the Queen of Rock 'n' Roll.

A Legacy Like No Other

Tina Turner's impact on popular culture cannot be overstated. With a voice that could shake the rafters and a presence that commanded attention, she left an indelible mark on music history. Her legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists and fans alike.

As we reflect on her remarkable life, it's clear that Tina Turner will always be remembered as a true icon, a trailblazer who shattered glass ceilings and paved the way for women in music. The question is: can this statue truly do justice to her enduring legacy?

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Many fans expressed their fury over the statue with one even referencing her iconic 1989 track The Best by commenting: 'That statue is Simply the Worst'

It was unveiled as part of the town's annual Tina Turner Heritage Days

Turner is pictured performing in Los Angeles back in February 1985

Tina Turner died at home at the age of 83 after a long illness back in May 2023. She is shown in 2019 on the opening night of the Tina Turner Musical in New York City

In an interview six weeks before her passing, Turner (pictured in November 1996) said she wanted to be remembered as 'the Queen of Rock 'n' Roll'

Turner is survived by her husband, 69-year-old Erwin Bach, and two adult sons

Turner with Mick Jagger during the 1985 Live Aid concert in Philadelphia. It was an iconic performance with palpable chemistry. Turner toured with the Rolling Stones in the late 60s. In her final interview just last month, Turner admitted that she 'always had a crush' on him