Turner Died of Cocaine OD

Music pioneer, 76, had a lifelong problem with drugs

By John Johnson, Newser Staff

Posted Jan 16, 2008 8:17 PM CST

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Turner Died of Cocaine OD — Tina and Ike Turner perform on stage in this 1966, file photo. Turner, whose role as one of rock's critical architects was overshadowed by his ogre-like image as the man who brutally abused former wife and rock icon Tina Turner, died Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2007, at his home in suburban San Diego. He was... (Associated Press)

Rock and soul legend Ike Turner died last month from a cocaine oversdose, a coroner's report says. Turner, 76, perhaps as famous for his abusive relationship with Tina Turner as for his pioneering music, had lifelong problems with drugs. The San Diego medical examiner says the overdose appears to have been accidental, MTV reports.

"The cause of death for Mr. Turner is cocaine toxicity with other significant additions contributing," said the report. Turner also had emphysema. Enshrined in the rock hall of fame, Turner's seminal 1951 song, "Rocket 88," is considered by many music historians to be the first rock song recorded, notes the San Diego Tribune. He went to to greater fame after meeting and marrying Tina.
(More Ike Turner stories.)

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