Mayor of Brownsville, Bill Rawls Jr., has shared that he'd like to build a statue in the Tennessee town to honor the late Tina Turner. Turner, who passed away Wednesday, was born in Brownsville, and attended Carver High School near Brownsville's Heritage Park. Mayor Rawls shared that he wants the statue to live in the park, memorializing the performer's legacy. He's also getting support from various other local leaders, who share his desire to commemorate Turner's career.
"When Tina stepped on stage, she owned it," Mayor Rawls told TMZ. He added, "We want this statue to represent that passion. Tina was an inspiration to the entire world." Rawls says Turner, "showed the people of Brownsville no matter where you start, you own your story about where you end up." Brownsville is also the home of the Tina Turner museum, which has seen a surge in visitors since her passing.
Tina Turner Was An Inspiration To The People Of Brownsville
"It's crazy around here," explained Sonia Outlaw-Clark, executive director of the the Tina Turner Museum. "There have been a few people leaving flowers." Outlaw-Clark went on, telling Morning Edition more about the museum. The Tina Turner Museum houses various pieces of memorabilia, including costumes, records, photos, and more.
"My favorite piece is the [high school] yearbook because it shows her before she ever started her music career," the executive director revealed. "They asked the students what they wanted to be, and she listed 'entertainer.' So we know she had aspirations of that even before she left Brownsville." Outlaw-Clark believes that "[Turner's] story of overcoming, becoming whatever you want to be," is what fans admire the most. "And making things happen regardless of where you came from or what your circumstances are."
