(June 2023) Episode 506 of the “opus project” is TINA TURNER, including her work with IKE & TINA, begun after her recent passing. Few if any performers can match her dynamism on stage and in voice; I had not fully appreciated her powerful delivery before this episode. Add to this her personal story of overcoming Ike’s abuse to become an international star, reaching a pinnacle with her mid-1980s hits. While these songs are how my generation knows her, my favorite stuff is the Ike & Tina albums from 1970-73. It’s fantastic gritty, funky soul. (Their earlier R&B material is less interesting.)
Favorite album (Ike & Tina): Feel Good
Favorite album (Tina solo): Acid Queen
Favorite song (Ike & Tina): I Like It
Favorite song (Tina solo): Whole Lotta Love (yeah, it’s a cover, but what she does with it is funkalicious)
Compared to expectations: same
Recommendation: Those early 70s albums are essential funk/soul
Opus Project 