We must examine the music of this dynamic duo, as they were a force to be reckoned with. Say what you will or don’t say what you won’t, we’d not know Tina if it weren’t for Ike. I understand how you may feel. However, let’s keep clear perspective. Okay?

Now!

Tina pushed her way into the band during a moment they were rehearsing. Ike was amazed at her voice, and while in high school,  she performed on weekends.

Not only do we know Tina ’cause of him, Ike was a talent scout and on account of him, we also know BB King and Bobby Blue Bland. Matter of fact, Ike is credited with taking the Blues to commercial success. It’s a big deal and I imagine they were high-fiving Ike or back in that time, they’d give skin.

What the heck is giving skin, Portraitist, you ask in panic. Calm down. That’s when someone holds their palm up and someone else slaps their palm. It was a sign of approval, you were cool with each other or showing love.

Well!

Ike and Tina Turner Revue started in 1960 and lasted 16 years. Their tour in the UK in ’66 broadened their appeal and made them hotter than they already were. Ike was always cool and ran things in the background but it was Tina’s stage.

Do you remember the first time you heard Proud Mary? The subtlety of the intro was bluesy and a signature Ike move and set the tone for a fierce Tina.

So!

At some point Tina and the saxophonist hooked up and had a son. At another point, she moved into Ike’s place, they birthed a son together in 1960 and the rest is history.

They had more hits than you’ve got fingers and toes. I mean, they were on a mission and, well like many, made rounds on the Chitlin Circuit in the depths of the South before integrated audiences. Ain’t that something?

They were inducted into both the Rock & Roll and Grammy Hall of Fame. Rolling Stone ranked them as the No. 2 duo of all time, which says a great deal about how hard they worked at their music. I don’t know who’s number one.

From the Musical Sketchbook sends every member of the Ike and Tina Turner Revue their flowers. May Ike and Tina Rest in Love.