Ike Turner died of a cocaine overdose, it was revealed yesterday (16.10.08).
Popular on LondonNet
The San Diego medical examiner’s office coroner’s report confirmed the River Deep Mountain High singer’s death was caused by “cocaine toxicity”.
Ike, 76, was found dead at his home in San Marcos, California, on December 12.
The legendary musician was married four times, most famously to singer Tina Turner. The couple met in 1958 and were together for twenty years, during which time they performed as a duo.
Tina later revealed Ike beat her during their marriage.
Tina’s representative said shortly after his passing: “Tina hasn’t had any contact with Ike in more than 30 years. No further comment will be made.”
Ike, whose career spanned half a century, said last year: “If I owe anybody an apology that would be Tina. I put her through hell with other women. I regret it today, but I can’t undo it.”
Ike made what most music critics believe was the first rock ‘n’ roll record, Rocket 88, in March 1951.
He had four children – Ike Jr., Michael, Ronald and Mia. Ike and Tina were inducted to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991.
