“The Best” by Tina Turner
The logical deduction would be that the addressee of Tina Turner’s “The Best” is the lover of the narrator. And basically, what she is doing is touting him as “the best”. Another way of looking at this proclamation, based on the chorus, is that she considers him to be superior to anyone she has ever dealt with in a romantic capacity or probably even a more-exceptional person than “anyone (she’s) ever met” in general”. So accordingly, the bulk of the lyrics are dedicated to her praising him and secondly recounting how positive he makes her feel inside.
“You’re simply the best
Better than all the rest
Better than anyone
Anyone I’ve ever met
I’m stuck on your heart
I hang on every word you say
Tear us apart
Baby, I would rather be dead”
Facts about “The Best”
“The Best” proved to be one of the big hits of Tina Turner’s illustrious career. For instance, it charted in a whopping 20 nations. And in the process, it reached number 1 in Portugal, number 5 in Britain and number 15 in America (the Hot 100). Moreover it has been certified Platinum in Australia.
The song has also re-charted occasionally throughout the years. For example, as recently as 2010 it actually topped the Scottish Singles Chart and peaked at number 9 in Britain (the UK Singles Chart). This was due to the song being popular amongst rugby fans, particular those of the Rangers Football Club, in the United Kingdom.
Other notable appearances this song has had in pop media include being a regular at funerals in the UK and also appearing a couple of times on the popular sitcom “Schitt’s Creek”. And interesting to note that it was also once covered by figure-skating legend Nancy Kerrigan.
In 1992, Tina dropped a duet version of this song alongside an Australian singer named Jimmy Barnes.
A popular alternative name for this track is “(Simply) the Best”.
The famous saxophone solo in this song is performed by an accomplished musician named Edgar White.
Did Tina Turner write “The Best”?
No. “The Best” was written by two noted songwriters, Holly Knight and Mike Chapman. Interesting to note is that this is the same pair who co-wrote Tina Turner’s 1984 hit “Better Be Good to Me”.
“The Best” was originally released by a singer named Bonnie Tyler in 1988. And when it was actually written, it was not intended for Tyler. It was penned with singer Paul Young in mind.
Tina’s version came out, via Capitol Records, on 2 September 1989. It served as the lead single from her seventh-solo album, which is entitled “Foreign Affair”. And her version was produced by the late Dan Hartman (1950-1994).
Her hit song “Steamy Windows” also appears on “Foreign Affair”.
Your Comments
SAMUEL says:
“To me, Tina embodies the epitome of strength, particularly female strength. I was about 16 years old when I first understood the hardships she had endured. Throughout my entire life, her immense power and vitality have served as a wellspring of inspiration, helping me through difficult challenges. She taught us, ladies, that no matter how fiercely life may knock us down, kick us while we’re down, and insist we remain there, we possess the indomitable spirit to rise again. She showed us what unwavering determination truly looks like, and she did so with grace and style, leaving an indelible mark on our hearts.”
BECCA says:
“Tina Turner was an extraordinary and immensely talented woman. Her life served as a lesson on confronting challenges and emerging triumphant, shining brightly and accomplishing feats. Despite the adversities she faced, she remained resolute in her identity and unwavering in her beliefs. Her legacy will forever be celebrated as one of the greatest. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to her for generously sharing her story, her experiences, and her incredible music with all of us.”
JOSEPH says:
“Rest in peace to a true legend, a phenomenal singer who possessed immense strength and talent. Your music will continue to reign eternally, from the iconic ‘Proud Mary’ with Ike, to the unforgettable ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It’, to the captivating ‘Whatever You Need’, and all the other incredible songs that graced the years in between. Tina has travelled a remarkable journey, experiencing it all and conquering every milestone. She is beyond doubt ‘The Best’. My heartfelt condolences go out to her husband, Erwin Bach, her children and friends in this time of sorrow.”
