Private Dancer cover

Private Dancer

Tina Turner

Album 1984

About this album

Sound: "A vibrant blend of rock, pop, and R&B showcasing Turner's powerful vocals and emotive storytelling."

Where they were

When 'Private Dancer' was released in May 1984, Tina Turner was experiencing a career renaissance after years of struggle, marked by her first major solo album post-Ike Turner. This album followed her previous release, 'Let's Stay Together,' which had hinted at her potential as a solo artist. The success of 'Private Dancer' solidified her status as a music icon and introduced her to a new generation of fans.

Why it matters

'Private Dancer' achieved significant commercial success, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard 200 and earning Turner multiple Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year for 'What’s Love Got to Do With It.' The album's influence extended beyond charts; it revitalized Turner's career and cemented her legacy in popular music, inspiring countless artists in the years that followed.

Essential tracks

  • "What’s Love Got to Do With It" — This track became Turner's signature song, encapsulating her emotional depth and resilience while addressing themes of love and independence.
  • "Private Dancer" — The title track showcases Turner's sultry vocals and tells a compelling story of yearning and empowerment, reflecting the album's overarching themes.
  • "Better Be Good to Me" — This track combines strong vocal delivery with an empowering message about self-respect, illustrating Turner's transformation into a confident solo artist.

Release Date

May 29, 1984

Artist Origin

Switzerland

Tracklist

  1. 1 I Might Have Been Queen 4:10
  2. 2 What’s Love Got to Do With It 3:48
  3. 3 Show Some Respect 3:18
  4. 4 I Can’t Stand the Rain 3:43
  5. 5 Private Dancer 7:13
  6. 6 Let’s Stay Together 5:16
  7. 7 Better Be Good to Me 5:12
  8. 8 Steel Claw 3:49
  9. 9 Help 4:30
  10. 10 1984 3:11
  11. 11 I Wrote a Letter 3:24
  12. 12 Rock ’n’ Roll Widow 4:45
  13. 13 Don’t Rush the Good Things 3:46
  14. 14 When I Was Young 3:11
  15. 15 What’s Love Got to Do With It (extended version) 5:48
  16. 16 Better Be Good to Me (extended version) 7:03
  17. 17 I Can’t Stand the Rain (extended version) 5:43