What does Rough sound like?

A bold blend of rock, funk, and soul that showcases Turner's powerful voice and assertive lyrical themes. Rooted in country and funk. Start with "Fruits of the Night".

Is Rough a good place to start with Tina Turner?

Yes, Rough is recommended as a starting point for new Tina Turner listeners. A bold blend of rock, funk, and soul that showcases Turner's powerful voice and assertive lyrical themes. Released in 1978, Rough marked Tina Turner's transition to a solo career following her tumultuous partnership with Ike Turner. This album came after her commercial peak with the duo, as she sought to redefine her image and sound independently. It was a critical step in establishing her as a formidable solo artist.

Rough works well if you're into steady mid-tempo celebration vibe, bold themes of empowerment and for group sing-alongs.

How many songs are on Rough?

Rough has 11 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.

Rough

Tina Turner · 1978

41 min · 11 tracks · country music

A bold blend of rock, funk, and soul that showcases Turner's powerful voice and assertive lyrical themes.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Bitch Is Back — This track stands out for its unapologetic lyrics and driving rhythm, embodying Turner's fierce attitude and artistic rebirth.
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A Woman in a Man’s World — This song explores gender dynamics with poignant lyrics that highlight women's struggles and triumphs, showcasing Turner's emotional range.
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Fruits of the Night Start here — Opening the album with a sultry vibe, this track sets the tone for an exploration of desire and vulnerability in Turner's storytelling.
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Night Time Is the Right Time — A cover of Ray Charles' classic, this rendition showcases Turner's vocal prowess and ability to infuse traditional songs with fresh energy.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

Rough showcases Tina Turner's powerful voice and assertive themes, blending rock and funk effectively.

What we noticed

The album opens with a strong mid-tempo track, followed by the upbeat anthem 'The Bitch Is Back', which sets a confident tone.
Several tracks feature prominent brass sections and rhythmic grooves that highlight Turner's vocal power and assertiveness.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo celebration vibe
bold themes of empowerment
for group sing-alongs
headphone detail on powerful vocals

Maybe skip if you

prefer fast-paced instant gratification
seek minimalist or experimental sounds

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Established Turner's solo career post-Ike, gaining significant attention and recognition.
Themes: gender dynamics· artistic rebirth· desire and vulnerability
Moods: Energetic· Aggressive
Career context: Released in 1978, Rough marked Tina Turner's transition to a solo career following her tumultuous partnership with Ike Turner. This album came after her commercial peak with the duo, as she sought to redefine her image and sound independently. It was a critical step in establishing her as a formidable solo artist.
Stylistic neighbors: Aretha Franklin· Janis Joplin· Chaka Khan