“What’s Love Got to Do with It” is a song by Tina Turner, released in 1984 as the lead single from her album “Private Dancer”. The song was written by Terry Britten and Graham Lyle, and was initially intended for another artist, but Tina Turner heard the demo and loved it so much that she decided to record it herself.
The song begins with a catchy guitar riff, followed by Turner’s powerful vocals. The lyrics explore the idea that love is not necessary for a successful relationship, and that sometimes, love can even be a hindrance:
“You must understand
Though the touch of your hand
Makes my pulse react
That it’s only the thrill
Of boy meeting girl
Opposites attract”
The chorus is perhaps the most memorable part of the song, with Turner belting out the iconic line “What’s love got to do, got to do with it?” over a pulsing beat:
“What’s love got to do, got to do with it?
What’s love but a second-hand emotion?
What’s love got to do, got to do with it?
Who needs a heart when a heart can be broken?”
The song was a massive success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and winning four Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. Its catchy chorus and empowering message have made it a timeless classic, and it remains one of Tina Turner’s most beloved songs to this day.
