One of rock 'n' roll's most important architects, and biggest villains, has died. I interviewed Ike Turner via phone several years ago and then saw him perform at the Sarasota Blues Festival. I was seated next to AC/DC singer Brian Johnson in the VIP tent and we both agreed Turner put on an excellent performance.
Long ago, I made the decision not to judge artists by their personal life. As a critic, it's the only way to operate. Unfortunately, Turner will be remembered as much for his spousal abuse and drug intake as pioneering rock 'n' roll.
Here's the obit in Turner's hometown paper.
This article appears in Dec 12-18, 2007.