A Beacon of Hope in the Bronx: Madeline “Maddie” Marinez’s Selfless Mission

In the heart of the Bronx, where the streets are lined with resilience and determination, Madeline “Maddie” Marinez has dedicated her life to serving the city’s most vulnerable population. As the founder of BOOTS ON GROUND, Maddie, as she’s affectionately known, has made it her mission to feed, clothe, and uplift the homeless and those struggling with substance use disorder.

Every Saturday, Maddie and her team – which includes her two daughters and a group of dedicated volunteers – set up tables on the corner of 149th Street and 3rd Avenue, transforming a bustling street corner into a haven of hope. With their own resources and the generosity of donors, they provide hot breakfast, clothes, hygiene items, and shoes to those in need.

But BOOTS ON GROUND is more than just a charity; it’s a lifeline. Maddie and her team go beyond the basics, offering resources and support for substance use treatment, housing, and employment. It’s a holistic approach that addresses the complex needs of the community, and it’s making a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most.

Maddie’s passion is palpable, and her love for the people she serves is evident in everything she does. “I love the work that I do here,” she says with conviction. “These are my people. I love them all.”

In a world where it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the scale of social issues, Madeline Marinez is a shining example of what can be accomplished with compassion, determination, and a willingness to get her hands dirty. She’s a true pillar of the community, and her work is a testament to the power of grassroots activism and community-driven change.

A Beacon of Hope in the Bronx: Madeline “Maddie” Marinez’s Selfless Mission

Vera Edwards: A Trailblazer in Independent Film

On March 22, 2025, Vera Edwards received a Citation of Merit from Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. This honor was bestowed upon her for her outstanding contributions to filmmaking and her dedication to mentoring local talent. Such recognition underscores the impact of her work on both the cultural landscape of the Bronx and its residents.
On March 22, 2025, Vera Edwards received a Citation of Merit from Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. This honor was bestowed upon her for her outstanding contributions to filmmaking and her dedication to mentoring local talent. Such recognition underscores the impact of her work on both the cultural landscape of the Bronx and its residents.

Vera Edwards is an accomplished independent film director, producer, and author hailing from the Bronx. Known for her impactful urban films, she has made significant contributions to both the film industry and her local community. Her dedication to mentoring aspiring actors and filmmakers has earned her numerous accolades, including recent recognition from prominent figures in New York

Edwards has established herself as a notable figure in independent cinema, particularly within the urban genre. Her films often reflect the realities of life in the Bronx, showcasing authentic narratives that resonate with audiences. Through her work, she not only entertains but also educates viewers about the complexities of urban life.

One of Edwards’ most commendable efforts is her commitment to mentoring young actors from her community. She actively involves them in her projects, providing opportunities for growth and exposure in the film industry. This hands-on approach not only helps nurture talent but also fosters a sense of community among aspiring artists.

On March 22, 2025, Vera Edwards received a Citation of Merit from Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. This honor was bestowed upon her for her outstanding contributions to film making and her dedication to mentoring local talent. Such recognition underscores the impact of her work on both the cultural landscape of the Bronx and its residents.

Additionally, Senator Cordell Cleare acknowledged Edwards’ contributions to community service with a citation that highlights her efforts beyond film making. These honors reflect not just her artistic achievements but also her commitment to uplifting those around her.

In March 2023, Vera Edwards was awarded the I AM WOMAN AWARD, celebrating women who have made significant strides in their fields while inspiring others. This accolade further cements her status as a role model for women in film and beyond.

As a proud resident of the Bronx, Vera Edwards continues to pave the way for future generations of filmmakers and actors through her work and mentorship. Her recognition by local leaders illustrates the profound impact she has had on both the arts and her community.

Vera Edwards is an influential independent film director whose work reflects urban realities while empowering local talent through mentorship and community engagement.

Charles “Chaz da Entertainer” Greene: A Multifaceted Talent and Community Activist

Charles “Chaz da Entertainer” Greene is a multifaceted individual known for his diverse talents and strong commitment to serving his community. As a decorated Army veteran, comedian, R&B singer, and community activist, Greene has made significant contributions in various fields, touching the lives of many through his work.

Rock Greening Association: Honoring Marian Greene

One of Greene’s notable endeavors is the establishment of the Rock Greening Association, dedicated to commemorating his mother, Marian Greene. This association serves as a platform for honoring her memory and carrying forward her legacy through various initiatives aimed at uplifting the community.

The “Don’t Push Me” Project: Taking a Stand Against Bullying

Greene is a staunch advocate against bullying, and he launched the “Don’t Push Me Project” to raise awareness about this critical issue. Through this project, he aims to empower individuals to stand up against bullying and create a safer environment for all members of the community.

Battle of the School Starz: Empowering Inner City Children

One of Greene’s most renowned projects is the “Battle of the School Starz,” an event that provides inner-city children with a platform to showcase their talents in singing, dancing, poetry, and more. By organizing competitions for local talent, Greene not only nurtures creativity but also instills confidence in young individuals.

Celebrating Talent and Fulfilling Hearts

Through these events and initiatives, Greene not only celebrates talent but also brings fulfillment to the hearts of participants, parents, and spectators alike. By recognizing and awarding winners, he creates a sense of accomplishment and pride within the community while offering entertainment that resonates with all those involved.

In conclusion, Charles “Chaz da Entertainer” Greene stands out as a remarkable individual who uses his talents and passion for entertainment to make a positive impact on society. Through his dedication to honoring his mother’s memory, advocating against bullying, empowering inner-city children, and celebrating talent within the community, Greene exemplifies the true essence of a multifaceted artist and community activist.

Double Dutch Extravaganza at School I.S. 219: A Thrilling Tournament Unveiled

On Saturday, November 18th In the heart of the South Bronx In a celebration of athleticism, precision, and team spirit, Headed by Jamal Turner and State Rep. Erica Martin. School I.S. 219 AKA X148 Charles Drew Education Campus hosted its much-anticipated Double Dutch Tournament. Set to unfold in the heart of the school’s vibrant community, this event promised to showcase the incredible talent and skills of participating students ranging from places like Connecticut, Washington D.C to Boston Massachusetts to our neighbors in Newark, Jersey City in New Jersey, Brooklyn, and Albany as well as parents, spectators, devoted double dutch enthusiasts and the community as a whole. Students have been diligently practicing their routines, mastering intricate footwork and synchronized jumps, in preparation for this exhilarating competition.

As teams from different grades and backgrounds come together, the Double Dutch Tournament becomes a melting pot of diversity, fostering unity and collaboration. Beyond the ropes, the event serves as a platform for students to showcase their dedication, perseverance, and the unyielding spirit of sportsmanship. The entire school community was ready to cheer on the grades from kindergarten all the way up to 12th grade. As they weaved through the ropes with grace and precision, transforming the gymnasium into a stage for the dazzling athleticism of School I.S. 219’s Double Dutch competition. The kids were given a fantastic viewing from one of the founding members of the Fantastic Four.

History shows us that the sport has roots that date back to 1973, where dutch settlers bought the sport to New Amsterdam now New York. The sport is played with two long jump ropes swung in opposite directions so that they cross each other.

Throughout the evening the cheers from the audience and other participants raved and cheered supporting each and every individual that participated. Resulting in an event that bought on the hard work of the participants and left everyone a winner. Handing out Trophy’s, ribbons and certificates. On their downtime participants and coaches were seen free styling and supporting their students with flashy moves and delivering an all around spectacle. An event the South Bronx was proud to host and looks forward to hosting many more and supporting the obvious comeback of the competitive sport of Double Dutch.

Written By Don Anthony.

Director Vera Edwards honored with Citation

Vera Edwards (March 4, 1966) is an American director, screenwriter, producer, and actor. Born and raised in the South Bronx, New York City, Edwards began her career as an author and then graduated to write, direct, and produce television shows on a cable channel called Bronxnet. The show was titled “Street Line.” It was an entertainment show that not only showed what was happening in the streets, but showed celebrities as well as up-and-coming artists, dance, hip-hop, businesses, current events, and politics. The show revolutionized the urban community. In 2009, Edwards and her son Ricardo Cordero (director of photography) received several Beta Awards for their contributions to television.

In 2011 Edwards published her first book titled “BAND OF GOLD,” which was written by Vera Edwards herself. This was the start of her writing career which jumped started her in the direction of making movies.

One of the first female independent multimedia film director and producer in the Bronx, Edwards has captured the essence of urban life by utilizing members of the community by taking real-life experience and turning it into art. She has become a true pioneer in hip-hop culture and urban day living.

Edwards wrote, produced, and directed with her son Ricardo Cordero her first underground independent feature film, Chicken (2013); The film was an urban drama. The entire cast was first-time actors. The film received worldwide praise from parents, children, teens, and several educational institutions ranging from different fields of study that implemented different story elements into their own syllabuses. It was a scripted reality show at its finest. Chicken showcased unfortunate realism that many individuals face in urban communities even to this day. The movie Chicken sold-out not only at the theaters but also sold out as DVDs in stores. It became one of the most sought out underground urban movies till this day.

Her second film was a romantic love story titled “Waiting for 4 Mr. Wright” (2015), which won a Bronxnet Beta Award. It too had first-time actors, Anabel Castillo, and Hip-Hop artist, Mighty Mike C (Michael Clee), from the legendary hip-hop group, The Fearless 4. The film received a standing ovation which was played at the iconic Mist Theater in Harlem, New York; It also was a DVD hit.

This was followed in 2015 by Edwards’s first novella “Perate,” a movie drama that starred Artie Cordel and hip-hop legend Wilfredo “Tito” Dones, of the legendary group The Fearless 4. It was a challenge for Edwards to write and produce the life of a Hispanic dysfunctional family. Her daughter Bobbi Cordero(writer) helped create the movie, which won Edwards another Beta Award. The movie Perate also played in the iconic Mist Theater in Harlem, New York City.

In 2015-2018, Edwards directed her first web series that started out as a small pitch that led to a bigger series of its own name and a powerful relationship drama, “Rodent,” starring Seven and Antoinette “Toni Styles” Vereen. This was a drama that identified with personal relationships amongst friends and family. The web series had twists and turns. Rodent was in high demand on the internet but ended abruptly because of ‘unsettling’ events created only amongst actors based off their newfound popularity that was developed from the success of the Rodent series.

In 2016, Edwards produced and directed “PPRESSED,” based on the everyday life of battle rappers. The movie starred Karine “Sho-Time” Thornton and Michael Deering (Mikey D) from the legendary group, “Main Source.” Since its success and debut, it has become the anthem and blueprint of videography used in today’s hip-hop rap culture within television and feature digital movie format.

Edwards wrote, produced, and directed “A Teenage Story” (2020) starring LA Sunshine (Lamar Hill), from the legendary group The Treacherous 3, DJ and creator of scratch, Grandwizard Theodore (Theodore Livingston), Stevie D (Stevie Lundy), from the legendary Force Mds and first-time actor Justin Hines. The movie was shot during the COVID pandemic and was set for the theaters, but due to the worldwide COVID restriction lock-downs, the 1:49-minute movie was released on YouTube and generated over 800,000 views.

When asked in a recent interview on the podcast “SHO-TIME TV PODCAST,” the interviewer asked Edwards “How were you able to create so many hit movies in such a short time,” Edwards replied” I couldn’t have done it without my son Ricardo Cordero. He is an excellent cameraman. He and I work great together, I know him, and he knows me. He knows my vision. I leave all the camera work to him, and he makes it happen. I think he is the best director of photography I know. To be able to create and share time as a mother and son is priceless. I enjoy those moments”.

On March 26, 2023, Edwards was honored with a Citation by Senator Cordell Cleare for her work with the community as a Film director.

Jaguar Wright

Jacquelyn Suzette Wright (born May 17, 1977), better known by her stage name, Jaguar Wright, is an American R&B and neo soul singer and songwriter. She is part of the Okayplayer collective. She started her career as an intern with various record labels. Wright has performed and collaborated alongside rap acts such as The Roots, Jay-Z, and Blackalicious.
Wright was brought to the attention of hip-hop group The Roots in 1998, which eventually led to her going to tour with them. She later appeared as a back-up singer for Jay-Z in 2001, and appeared in a Coca-Cola advert as part of the brand’s “Nu Soul” campaign. She has released two solo albums to date: Denials, Delusions & Decisions in 2002, and Divorcing Neo 2 Marry Soul in 2005. Wright also recorded an album entitled. And Your Point Is? which was due for release in 2003 on MCA Records (who also distributed her debut), before the label folded. However, many of the tracks recorded for that album later appeared on Divorcing Neo 2 Marry Soul. In 2007, two new songs appeared on her MySpace profile. One was a live version of new song “Sometimes”, the other a cover of “Let’s Do It Again”. A further two new songs surfaced in 2009, “Beautiful” and “Surely Shawty”, although neither saw an official release. She has toured every year since her debut album was released. In March 2008, she toured Europe with Bahamadia and Hezekiah for the “Philly Sounds” tour. Wright did not perform any new material on the tour, but did live cover versions of Cherrelle’s “Saturday Love” and Crystal Waters’ “Gypsy Woman (She’s Homeless)”. During the tour, Wright announced that she was in the process of writing a novel, and working on a third album. No release dates have been confirmed for either as yet. In 2008, she supplied backing vocals for Al Green’s album Lay It Down. In January 2011, Jaguar Wright toured Europe with Lady Alma on the “Philly Sounds 2011” tour. She revealed that she was working on a third album, due out in the summer of 2011, the lead single from the new album to be called “Switch”. In the summer of 2012, she assembled a “rock & soul band” of seasoned Philadelphia musicians called The W.E. ft. Jaguar Wright.

Written by Dianne Washington

Director Vera Edwards

 

Vera Edwards is an award-winning American independent film director/producer/and author. Born and raised in the South Bronx, Edwards took her life experience and applied it to film. She and her son Ricardo Cordero began their Journey as visual storytellers by gathering independent artist from the streets and giving them a platform to express their talent by allowing them to further their careers as actors.

Edwards and her son formed Street Line Video an underground media video production team for unsung talent. Edwards and her son Ricardo Cordero have recorded major celebrities on and off stage such as Babyface, Charlie Wilson, Nikki Minaj, New Edition, The Ojays, Millie Jackson, Kurtis Blow Rick Ross just to name a few. She states after filming so many celebrities and helping them retain themselves in the music industry it was time that her son an herself needed to embark on creating history for themselves. She then wrote her first novel Band of Gold, which was one of the urban communities best selling books, you can get it free on Amazon. Edwards stated it was the book that she wanted to turn into a movie drama. Readers requested more of her work that's when She learned  that our stories need to be told. So she then decided to shoot her own movies to generate her audience and followers, because of the high demand of her first novel Band of Gold Edwards wrote scripts for her son to shoot and edit and distribute across the world.

Edwards has had several Independent films that played in the theater such as Chick-en, Waiting 4 Mr. Wright starring Michael Clee from The Fearless 4, a their first novella titled Perate starring Tito from the 1980s group The fearless four.  All three of these movies won Beta awards and had sold out shows. Edwards also has a soap opera title "Rodent" the Urban Soap opera which was released as a web series which was a drama and a battle rap movie titled PPRESSED starring Karine Sho-time Thornton and Mikey D (Michael Deering) of the Legendary 90s hip hop rap group Main Source. These movies met all kinds of genre in all types of countries. Which made the two web series a download hit. 

Edwards latest work a pandemic movie titled a teenage story starring La Sunshine from the 1980s hip hop rap group The treacherous three, Grandwizard Theodore creator of DJ scratch and Stevie D from the 1980s r&b group The Force Mds was aired during the lock-down of the COVID 19 pandemic. The pandemic had the whole world staying in the house for a year and a half 2020 and a portion of 2021. The movie a teenage story was released on youtube for free and generated over 800,000 views. Not bad for and independent full featured movie. Since the pandemic has been lifted somewhat Edwards has started working on a new up-and-coming movie tv drama for the 2023 fall tv line up (now in production). She guarantees her audience will love this one. All movies can be viewed and seen all over the world. Edwards and her son Ricardo Cordero said they will continue to work as a directors and pride themselves by continuing to promote artist who couldn't receive a fair chance in the entertainment world. You can watch all of their movie on youtube @ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-wMxedqsYlGlg2HezxvWmA


   

Street Line needs your help!

Please click the go fund me link below and help us purchase a new camera. Thanks for caring and sharing.

https://www.gofundme.com/f/gjayu-we-need-a-new-camera?utm_source=customer&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_campaign=p_cf+share-flow-1

Actor Karine “Sho-time”Thornton and Director Ricardo Cordero

Hi all and welcome to Street Line. We are and independent video team that create content for all.  We  just released a beautiful movie titled “A Teenage Story” during the pandemic which is doing well on the you-tube platform. Clickthe link to view for free https://youtu.be/UWBWmpBHIxE  . 

Recently we were shooting a video and our camera failed : ( . Because we are in the second wave of the pandemic the service station were backed up. By the time the store reached or number the price to  fix the camera will be up to $1,500. Our three year warranty ran out  so for that price quoted we decided to purchase a new one for about $3,000.

This is where you come in. We are asking for donations so we can complete our movie “PPRESSED 2 This movie is a continuation from  the highly claimed movie “PPRESSED” which is  now streaming for free on various  sites. By donating this will help us purchase a new camera. This is the upgrade we need. Any amount will do. We are so forever grateful.

We are looking to begin shooting “PPRESSED 2″ in  May 2021. The pandemic should be over by that time. If not the summer of 2021

You can watch all of our featured movies by clicking our verified  link https://streetlinevideo.com/

Please show your support by sharing and liking our videos.

Thank you,
Your friends at Street Line 

Ricardo Cordero

Rapper on the Rise Vaygez Blakk

On February 10th, there was a shift in Hip Hop. The bar heavy project of Vaygez Blakk titled “Bar Queen” was released on all streaming platforms. Vaygez is a Harlem bred Female MC. The difference between Blakk and other female MCs of this era and some of the past is that, even though she is easy on the eyes, she doesn’t use or misuse her assets to get attention in the music game. She bodies a few stages “I personally witnessed “ she’s  been cipher tested a few times once on shade 45’s Lord Sear Show amongst some other heavy spitters and not only did she hold her own but she shined like the diamond she is.        

Her voice is distinct, not as heavy as Foxy Brown but not as light as Nicki Minaj but believe she has the versatility and skill to be mentioned with these two Female MCs known to spit heavy bars within this male dominated sport. Her project showcases her ability to rap. Bar Queen is constructed of ten songs with only one feature which is totally unheard of now of days where Artists have co signs and featured heavy projects to try and get other artists’ fan base to ride the wave. However Vaygez opted to keep the ball in a Mamba Mentality. She didn’t disappoint, this project was equal to Kobe rookie season where he exceeded expectations but you knew there was more untapped potential.          

Vaygez Blakk starts off with Say Dat which sets the tone for the entire project. As the project moves forward you can begin to get lost in her wordplay and that slick Harlem talk all Harlemites are known  for.  There is truthfully not one “wack” song on Bar Queen and I’m sure as you take a listen in your AirPods or you blast it from your vehicle’s speakers you’ll find a favorite or two.           

As I zoned out twice to the entire album, once from start to finish and secondly on shuffle as i do to get a real feel for the work. I found myself replaying Chikko, In The Zone and Everything.  If there is one caveat of the project it is more leaning towards my personal preference of wanting to hear her put together a few more concept guided songs, however I’m sure she has those in her bag.  I recommend this project, so do yourself a favor and stream or download BAR QUEEN from VAYGEZ BLAKK, you won’t be disappointed. 

 Note: this write up was not paid for or bartered for a favorable review.Sky’S View by David “D HOP” Hopper

Tina Turner

Tina Turner (born Anna Mae Bullock, November 25, 1939) is an American-Swiss singer and actress. Originally from the United States, she became a Swiss citizen in 2013. Turner rose to prominence as a duo with her then-husband Ike Turner before reinventing herself as a solo performer. One of the best-selling recording artists of all time, she has been referred to as The Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll and has sold more than 200 million records worldwide. Turner is noted for her energetic stage presence, powerful vocals, career longevity, and trademark legs.

She began her career in 1958 as a featured singer with Ike Turner’s Kings of Rhythm, recording under the name “Little Ann” on “Boxtop.” Her introduction to the public as Tina Turner began in 1960 as a member of the Ike & Tina Turner Revue with the hit single “A Fool In Love.” Success followed with a string of notable hits, including “It’s Gonna Work Out Fine” (1961), “River Deep – Mountain High” (1966), the Grammy-winning “Proud Mary” (1971), and “Nutbush City Limits” (1973). In her autobiography, I, Tina: My Life Story (1986), Turner revealed that she had subjected to domestic violence prior to their 1976 split and subsequent 1978 divorce. Raised a Baptist, she became an adherent of Nichiren Buddhism in 1973, crediting the spiritual chant of Nam Myoho Renge Kyo with helping her to endure during difficult times. After her separation from Ike Turner, she rebuilt her career through live performances.

In the 1980s, Turner launched a major comeback as a solo artist. The 1983 single “Let’s Stay Together” was followed by the 1984 release of her fifth solo album, Private Dancer, which became a worldwide success. The album contained the song “What’s Love Got to Do with It”; becoming Turner’s biggest hit and winning four Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year.[6] Turner’s solo success continued throughout the 1980s and 1990s with multi-platinum albums and hit singles. In 1993, What’s Love Got to Do with It, a biographical film adapted from Turner’s autobiography, was released along with an accompanying soundtrack album. In 2008, Turner returned from semi-retirement to embark on her Tina!: 50th Anniversary Tour; the tour became one of the highest-selling ticketed shows of all time. Turner has also garnered success acting in films such as the 1975 rock musical Tommy, the 1985 action film Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome, and the 1993 film Last Action Hero.

Turner has won 12 Grammy Awards; those awards include eight competitive awards, three Grammy Hall of Fame awards, and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Rolling Stone ranked Turner 63rd on its list of the 100 greatest artists of all time and 17th on its list of the 100 greatest singers of all time. Turner has her own stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and on the St. Louis Walk of Fame. She was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with Ike Turner in 1991. Turner is a 2005 recipient of the Kennedy Center Honors.

Born Anna Mae Bullock, near Brownsville, TN, she began singing as a teen and joined Ike Turner’s touring show as an 18-year-old backup vocalist. Just two years later, she was the star of the show, the attention-grabbing focal point for an incredibly smooth-running soul revue headed by Ike and his Kings of Rhythm. The couple began hitting the charts in 1960 with “A Fool in Love,” and notched charting singles throughout the 1960s such as “River Deep-Mountain High” and in 1971 with “Proud Mary.”

Frustrated by Ike’s increasingly irrational behavior, though, Tina walked out just three years later. Turner converted to Buddhism in 1974 to help her conquer her troubling marriage to Ike Turner. Turner has credited Buddhism with giving her the courage to leave Ike and to find peace. Since then she has been acknowledged as one of the world’s most popular entertainers, biggest-selling music artists of all time, and the most successful female rock artist ever. She had record sales of nearly 200 million copies worldwide and sold more concert tickets than any other solo performer in music’s history.

After leaving Ike Turner in 1976, and divorcing him in 1978, Turner didn’t get into a serious relationship again until she met a German record executive named Erwin Bach while at Heathrow Airport in London in 1985. After a year, they started dating and have been living together ever since. Bach is 17 years younger than Turner.

Turner’s world tour Break Every Rule Tour had record- breaking ticket sales and was attended by over 4 million fans. Turner also beat out The Rolling Stones by touring Europe during her sold out Foreign Affair Tour in 1990 and playing to 4 million people in just six months. Her 1996 Wildest Dreams Tour was performed to 3.5 million fans.

In 2000, she launched her Twenty Four Seven Tour that packed stadiums all over the world. It was the highest grossing tour of the year, and is the 5th biggest grossing tour in America ever. Her success and contributions to the rock music genre have garnered her title, “The Queen of Rock & Roll.”

She is known for her overpowering and energetic stage presence, powerful vocals, ground-breaking concerts. She was listed on Rolling Stone’s list, “The Immortals: The Greatest Artists of All Time.” Turner is a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, and she is also represented in the Grammy Hall of Fame by two of her recordings: “River Deep – Mountain High” (1999) and “Proud Mary” (2003).

Turner has won eight Grammy Awards. In February 2008, at age 68, Turner performed together with Beyoncé at the 50th Annual Grammy Awards. In addition, she picked up a Grammy as a featured artist on River: The Joni Letters. On April 29, 2008, Turner announced that she would embark on her Tina: Live in Concert Tour on October 1 in Kansas City, MO, at the Sprint Center. Turner is the mother of two sons and adopted Ike Turner’s two children from other relationships.

Turner has lived in Europe since the mid-1980s, having moved to London in 1986 before settling in Switzerland later that decade. In 1996, she began building a villa outside Nice, France, which was completed by 2000. Turner now divides her time between Switzerland, England, and France and has recently applied for full Swiss citizenship.

Turner revealed in her 2018 memoir Tina Turner: My Love Story that she had suffered life-threatening illnesses. In 2013, three weeks after her wedding to Erwin Bach, she suffered a stroke and had to learn to walk again. In 2016, she was diagnosed with intestinal cancer. Turner opted for homeopathic remedies to treat her high blood pressure that resulted in damage to her kidneys and eventual kidney failure. Her chances of receiving a kidney were low, and she was urged to start dialysis. She considered assisted suicide and signed up to be a member of Exit, but Bach offered to donate a kidney for her transplant. Turner had kidney transplant surgery on April 7, 2017.