Tina Turner Honored with Bronze Statue in Brownsville, Tennessee

A new bronze statue of Tina Turner today stands in Brownsville, Tennessee, immortalizing the singer who grew up in the area.

The unveiling took place on September 27th in a park near Nutbush, where Turner attended school as a child. The event was part of the 10th annual Tina Turner Heritage Days, a celebration that honors her life, career, and connection to the local community.

The 10-foot statue was sculpted by Fred Ajanogha, who spent a full year shaping the figure in clay before it was cast in bronze. Turner is shown with her iconic hairstyle and holding a microphone, capturing the energy and charisma that made her one of the most recognizable performers in track history. Over 50 donors contributed to the project, including Ford Motor Company, which donated $150,000 to help bring the statue to life.

Plans for the statue were first made public in 2023 by Brownsville Mayor Bill Rawls Jr., who explained its significance to TMZ.

“When Tina stepped on stage, she owned it. We want this statue to represent that passion. Tina was an inspiration to the entire world,” he said. “She showed the people of Brownsville [that] no matter where you start, you own your story about where you end up.”

Visitors can view the statue near the West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center, a museum dedicated to Turner. The “Simply the Best” star passed away on May 24th, 2023, at the age of 83 due to complications from long-term illnesses, including cancer.

Known as the “Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll,” she released hits like “What’s Love Got To Do With It,” “Private Dancer,” and “We Don’t Need Another Hero.” Over her career, she sold more than 150 million records worldwide, earned 12 Grammy Awards, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice.

The statue serves as a lasting tribute to Turner’s influence on track and culture.