Tina Turner fans are calling out Beyoncé and Jay-Z for their reference to the late
The news of her death led to the resurfaced lyrics of Beyoncé, 41, and Jay-Z’s song, “Drunk in Love,” perhaps the couple’s most iconic track together.
“Beat the box up, like Mike in ’97, I bite,” Jay-Z, 53, raps.
“I’m Ike Turner, turn up baby, no, I don’t play. Now eat the cake, Anna Mae said, ‘Eat the cake, Anna Mae.’”
The “Empire State of Mind” rapper’s lyrics reference a notorious moment in the Turner’s relationship when the “Proud Mary” singer, who went by Anna Mae at the time, was in a diner with Ike and fans asked her for an autograph instead of him.
Ike was displeased with the fan’s lack of interest in him, so he attacked Tina by forcing cake in her mouth, saying, “Eat the cake, Anna Mae!”
When “Drunk in Love” debuted in 2013, the verse rubbed many people the wrong way, many of whom criticized the Carters for trying to profit off Tina’s abusive relationship.
The Post has contacted Beyoncé and Jay-Z’s reps for comment about the lyrics.
Ten years later, Turner lovers are still disgruntled by the lyrics, especially after Beyoncé shared a tribute post to her “inspiration,” Tina Turner, on Instagram and Twitter.
“My beloved queen. I love you endlessly,” the “Cuff It” singer wrote. “I’m so grateful for your inspiration and all the ways you have paved the way. You are strong and resilient. You are the epitome of power and passion.”
“We are all so fortunate to have witnessed your kindness and beautiful spirit that will forever remain. Thank you for all you have done,” she wrote.
Even with her loving send-off, fans reignited their disdain about referencing Turner’s toxic relationship.
“I keep thinking about how disrespectful it was for Jay-Z and Beyonce to have that ‘Drunk in Love’ lyric making fun of Tina Turner’s abuse from Ike …” tweeted one person.
“Knowing that Tina Turner was Beyoncé’s blueprint and one of her biggest influences makes that “Eat the Cake Anna Mae” line in Drunk in Love even more jarring,” added another.
“Jay Z will forever be nasty for ruining Drunk in Love with that Tina line. Why Bey kept it, idk,” wrote a disappointed fan.
Beyoncé, currently in the UK as part of her “Renaissance World Tour,” has paid homage to Turner’s contribution to the music industry many times during her career.
In 2005, she honored Turner at the Kennedy Center Honors ceremony, where she performed “Proud Mary” with the icon in attendance.
The duo also performed at the 2008 Grammys, marking Turner’s first concert performance in over seven years.
“This is literally a dream to me because she’s the ultimate [sic]. To actually be on the stage with her is crazy,” Beyoncé said at the time.
