By Bill Raack, KWMU
St. Louis – Ike Turner, the rock and roll pioneer who made his name as a musician and producer in St. Louis, has died at the age of 76.
Turner wasn't born in St. Louis. He's from Clarksdale, Mississippi. But he moved to the area in 1954, and with his band the Kings of Rhythm, developed his rock 'n roll sound.
After meeting the young singer Anna Mae Bullock in St. Louis in 1959, the union became known and famous as Ike and Tina Turner, who had such hits as "Proud Mary."
Both have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and have stars on the St. Louis Walk of Fame.
Ike was scheduled to return to St. Louis this year to play in the Big Muddy Blues Festival, but canceled his appearance because of an illness.
Some controversy developed earlier this year when it was suggested that the mayor declare Ike Turner Day in St. Louis, because Turner had admitted abusing his wife.