Remembering Ike Jr.: Son of Tina and Ike Turner, Grammy-Winning Musician, Dies
In a solemn turn of events, the musical world bids farewell to Ike Turner Jr., the son of legendary rock ‘n’ roll duo Tina Turner and Ike Turner Sr. The 67-year-old artist passed away on Saturday, October 4, in a Los Angeles hospital, due to complications from kidney failure, as confirmed by family member Jacqueline Bullock.
Turner Jr.’s health had been deteriorating in recent years, marked by severe heart issues and a stroke just a month prior. In a heartfelt statement to Page Six, Bullock expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing her cousin not only as family but as a brother in bond and upbringing. “Junior was more than a cousin to me… we grew up in the same famed household together,” she shared.
The Turner family tree is woven into the very fabric of American music history. Born to Ike Turner Sr. and Lorraine Taylor, Ike Jr. was later adopted by Tina Turner, who raised him as her own. His siblings included Michael, his biological brother; Ronnie Turner, Tina and Ike’s only biological child together; and Raymond Craig, Tina’s son from a previous relationship. The Turner family has endured profound loss over the years, with Craig’s tragic suicide in 2018, Ronnie’s death from colon cancer in 2022, Tina’s passing in May 2023 after a prolonged illness, and Ike Sr.’s death in 2007 from a drug overdose.
Despite carrying the weight of a storied, often tumultuous family legacy, Ike Jr. carved out his own space in the music industry. As Bullock poignantly recalled, his passion for music bloomed early. “There wasn’t an instrument he did not want to play,” she said. Initially drawn to the drums, a young Ike Jr. was famously told by Tina to disassemble his kit after each practice—a lesson in humility and discipline that would lead him to master the keys and other instruments.
His artistic journey evolved from performer to technician, as he took on a critical role behind the scenes at Bolic Sound Studios, the iconic recording studio founded by Ike Turner Sr. There, Ike Jr. emerged not just as a multi-instrumentalist but as a respected sound engineer. His technical prowess was cemented with a Grammy win in 2007 for Best Traditional Blues Album for his work on his father’s record, Risin’ With the Blues.
Tributes poured in across social media from family and fans alike. Afida Turner, widow of Ronnie Turner, shared a touching tribute on Instagram: “REST IN PEACE IKE JR: U WAS AMAZING BROTHER IN LAW I M GLAD I SPEAK WITH U ON A PHONE BEFORE U GONE LOVE U RIP 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻.”
While Ike Jr.’s name may have remained just outside the spotlight that followed his parents, his presence in the music industry was profound, steady, and deeply respected. As the Turner family continues to navigate its rich and complex legacy, one thing remains clear: Ike Turner Jr. was a heartbeat in the rhythm of a dynasty. And now, that beat—strong, soulful, and unforgettable—rests in peace.
