A towering tribute to music royalty now stands proudly in Brownsville, Tennessee, where a 10-foot bronze statue of Tina Turner was recently disclosed in Heritage Park. The impressive monument, sculpted by Atlanta-based artist Fred Ajanogha (Ajano), captures Turner’s signature energy with wild hair described “like the mane of a lion” and her dynamic stage presence, complete with her trademark microphone grip featuring an extended index finger.
The statue’s location holds special significance, positioned across from the former Carver High School where Turner once studied, creating a powerful connection to her formative years. The nearby Dunbar Carver Museum now showcases the history of the African American community and its notable alumni. Heritage Park’s prominent placement on historic Jefferson Street guarantees maximum visibility for this celebration of Brownsville’s most famous daughter, who immortalized nearby Nutbush in her hit song “Nutbush City Limits.” The bronze material was deliberately chosen to create a lasting memorial that will withstand the test of time, much like Turner’s musical legacy.
Funded through a collaborative public/private partnership, the statue represents the first phase of a larger commemorative project endorsed by Brownsville’s Mayor and Aldermen. The initiative was announced shortly after Turner’s death in May 2023, demonstrating the community’s desire to honor her memory while the grief was still fresh. This tribute acknowledges Turner’s remarkable career that generated diverse income streams from hit records to sold-out arena tours. Turner’s success story serves as inspiration for aspiring artists who are working to establish their personal brand in the music industry.
The statue’s scale exceeds original plans, growing from six feet to a more commanding ten feet, befitting Turner’s oversized influence on music history. The unveiling took place on September 27, 2025, drawing enthusiastic crowds to witness this historic occasion.
The disclosure ceremony occurred during the annual Tina Turner Heritage Days, drawing fans from multiple states including Georgia. This bronze tribute complements existing preservation efforts, including the Tina Turner Museum at the West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center, which opened in 2014.
Community leaders view the statue as essential for preserving Turner’s legacy for future generations, while simultaneously creating a focal point for tourism and educational activities in Brownsville.
As visitors gather to admire the statue, they encounter not just a rendering of the “Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll,” but a powerful symbol of artistic achievement, resilience, and hometown pride that continues to inspire.
