JACKY JASPER HONORS THE LATE GREAT IKE TURNER, ON THE BLUES LEGEND’S BIRTHDAY

by Jacky Jasper

I first met Ike Turner back in 2001, while I was orchestrating DVD deals. I was looking to land a deal including an Ike and Tina Turner performance, so I got his number from my pimp buddy, Rex. Rex was good friends with Ronnie Turner, Ike’s son. I called Ike, but he didn’t answer, so I left a message. Ike later told me that after he listened to my voice message, he decided that I sounded like a genuine person. That’s the only reason why Ike said he returned my phone call.

Before I met him in person, Ike sent two young ladies to my home to meet with me. He did this to find out if I proved to be a trustworthy person. The two ladies would later return to Ike (with good news, in my favor), and confirm that I was in fact cool. Not long after, Ike and I hooked up. We ended up becoming so cool with one another, that Ike even told me “I wish my son’s were like you”.

After we wrapped the Ike and Tina Turner DVD deal, we stayed in touch. We’d vibe off each other’s music. One day, Ike said to me, “You got good music and I like your rapp’in but you look like a singer man…you should try singing.” He later introduced me to BLUES music, and asked me if I liked it. To tell you the truth, I wasn’t into it. But out of respect for Ike, I listened. “Let’s record an album together,” Ike said. “I’m working on a new album and I want you to be on it.” I was so shocked – I was like, “Yeah let’s do it!” And, before I knew it, we were recording an album together. That album later landed Ike his last Grammy.

Ike was my mentor of Blues music. For some reason, he knew I’d could catch on fast. He was passing his talent unto me, and I was very receptive. Aside from music, we hit strip clubs together, made music together, and made money together. We were friends. There were many things that Ike told me, but his secrets always did and always will remain safe with me.

Just before his passing, I promised Ike that I would do a Rock ‘N’ Roll album. “You better,” Ike responded. “Because you know what to do.” At that time, Ike was working with Brain Joseph Burton (aka ‘Danger Mouse’ from Gnarls Barkley). Just one week before his death, Ike played me that music. He ended up never getting a chance to record it.

To continue my late friend and mentor’s legacy, I am dedicating my latest work of music to the legendary Ike Turner. It’s November 5th, and it’s your birthday Ike, and I’m singing mane! Happy Birthday Ike. I’ll see you when i get there….