About the song
Released in 1989 as the lead single from her album “Foreign Affair,” Tina Turner’s rendition of “The Best” quickly ascended to iconic status. Originally a cover of a Holly Knight composition, Turner’s powerful vocals and the song’s infectious melody transformed it into a global phenomenon.
Turner’s personal touch was evident in the song’s creation. Dissatisfied with the original structure, she collaborated with Knight to add a bridge and change the key, resulting in a more dynamic and emotionally resonant composition. The addition of Edgar Winter’s soulful saxophone solo further enhanced the song’s appeal, creating a signature sound that has become synonymous with Turner’s legacy.
Beyond its musical brilliance, “The Best” has enjoyed an extraordinary cultural impact. It served as the centerpiece of a Pepsi commercial, propelling Turner’s career to even greater heights. The song’s enduring popularity is evident in its continued use in advertising campaigns for brands like Applebee’s and T-Mobile, solidifying its status as a timeless commercial anthem.
Sports and entertainment have also embraced “The Best” with fervor. It became an unofficial anthem for the New South Wales Rugby League, energizing fans and transforming the sport’s image. Tina Turner’s dedication of the song to Formula One legend Ayrton Senna further cemented its emotional resonance.
Critical acclaim accompanied the song’s commercial success. Billboards lauded Turner’s vocal prowess, while other outlets praised the song’s infectious melody and sing-along quality. Decades later, “The Best” remains a beloved classic, a testament to Tina Turner’s enduring artistry and the song’s universal appeal.
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Lyrics
I call you when I need you, my heart’s on fire
You come to me, come to me wild and wild
When you come to me
Give me everything I need
Give me a lifetime of promises and a world of dreams
Speak a language of love like you know what it means
Mmm, and it can’t be wrong
Take my heart and make it strong, baby
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
In your heart, I see the star of every night and every day
In your eyes, I get lost, I get washed away
Just as long as I’m here in your arms
I could be in no better place
You’re simply the best
Better than all the rest
Better than anyone
Anyone I’ve ever met
Ooh, I’m stuck on your heart
I hang on every word you say
Don’t tear us apart, no, no, no
Baby, I would rather be dead
Each time you leave me, I start losing control
You’re walking away with my heart and my soul
I can feel you even when I’m alone
Oh baby, don’t let go
Ooh, you’re the best, ooh
Better than all the rest
Better than anyone
Anyone I’ve ever met
Ooh, I’m stuck on your heart
I hang on every word you say
Don’t tear us apart, no, no
Baby, I would rather be dead
You’re the best
Ooh, you’re simply the best
Better than all the rest
Better than anyone
Anyone I’ve ever met
I’m stuck on your heart, baby
I hang on every word you say
Don’t tear us apart, no, no, no
Baby, I would rather be dead
Oh, you’re the best
You’re better than all the rest
Better than anyone
Anyone I’ve ever met
Ooh, you’re the best