About the song
“Typical Male” by Tina Turner is a bold, empowering anthem that highlights her unique ability to blend rock, pop, and soulful storytelling. Released in 1986 as the lead single from her album Break Every Rule, this song represents another milestone in Turner’s legendary career. Written by Terry Britten and Graham Lyle, who also penned her iconic hit “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” “Typical Male” showcases Turner’s powerful voice and fearless attitude.
The song’s lyrics delve into the complexities of romantic relationships, exploring themes of love, desire, and frustration. In “Typical Male,” Turner playfully takes on the role of a confident woman who’s caught in the push and pull of attraction. The lyrics express both empowerment and vulnerability, as she sings about trying to get through to a man who embodies typical male traits — stubbornness, pride, and emotional distance. The catchy chorus and Turner’s dynamic vocal delivery make it a standout track that blends personal emotion with universal themes.
“Typical Male” became a commercial success, peaking at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and maintaining its position in the top 10 for several weeks. It also reached high positions on international charts, including No. 3 in Canada and No. 5 in the UK, further cementing Turner’s status as a global superstar in the 1980s. Its polished production, featuring strong drums and synths, matched the sonic trends of the time while maintaining Turner’s signature edge.
The music video for “Typical Male” also became iconic, featuring Tina Turner in her classic leather attire and striking red lipstick, exuding confidence and sex appeal. The visuals perfectly captured the tone of the song, making it a memorable moment in her career and in the broader music scene of the 1980s.
As part of the Break Every Rule album, “Typical Male” helped solidify Tina Turner’s reign in the post-Private Dancer era. It showcased her versatility as an artist, moving seamlessly between rock, pop, and soul, while still delivering songs with strong emotional impact. Even today, “Typical Male” remains a reminder of Turner’s extraordinary ability to channel personal experience into music that resonates deeply with audiences across generations.