Biography
Who is Joe Lynn Turner?
Early life and real name
Joe Lynn Turner was born Joseph Arthur Mark Linquito in Hackensack, New Jersey, on August 2, 1951. Growing up in an Italian American home, he became interested in music during the 1960s and was influenced by singers like Frank Sinatra and Enrico Caruso.
As a child, he played the accordion before learning the guitar in his early teens. While attending high school, he formed a band called Ezra to perform original music and cover songs.
Fandango and joining Rainbow
In 1977, Joe joined the rock group Fandango, which signed with RCA Records. He sang and played guitar on four albums with the group while touring alongside well-known acts such as the Beach Boys and Billy Joel.
After Fandango split up, British guitarist Ritchie Blackmore invited Joe to audition for Rainbow. He became the lead vocalist, helping shift the band toward a more mainstream sound that brought them chart success in the United States.
Career highlights with Yngwie Malmsteen and Deep Purple
Following his time with Rainbow, Joe collaborated with guitar player Yngwie Malmsteen on the studio album Odyssey and a live recording from Leningrad. He supplied lyrics for nine of the twelve songs on Odyssey, which reached the Billboard 200 charts.
In 1989, Joe joined Deep Purple and recorded the album Slaves and Masters. He went on a world tour with the band in 1991 before leaving the group the following year.
Solo work and personal life
Beyond his band collaborations, Joe has released multiple solo albums, beginning with Rescue You in 1985 and continuing with later projects such as Belly of the Beast. He also worked with other musicians in groups like the Hughes Turner Project and Mother's Army.
In August 2022, Joe shared details regarding his long-standing experience with alopecia. He was diagnosed with the condition at the age of three and began wearing a wig when he was fourteen years old.
Birthday and age
Joe Lynn Turner was born on August 2, 1951, which makes Joe 75 years old today. That birthday falls under the Leo sign. Joe shares the date with 30 other famous people.
Explore more
