R.I.P. Ike Turner, 1931-2007

According to a post on the dubiously reliable TMZ.com, Ike Turner has passed away.

Working on getting confirmation or denial ASAP from management. Turner had pulled out of a headlining performance at the Big Muddy Blues Festival this past September due to illness.

[Update, 3:45 p.m.] The blog Austin360 also posted a statement saying he has, based on confirmation from Turner's booking agency, Maximus Entertainment.

[Update, 3:48 p.m.]: I just called Maximus Entertainment, and the woman I spoke to there said it's true, although they had no comment at this time. A statement is planned to be released by the company soon; I'll post it as soon as I have it.]

[Update, 3:51 p.m.]: The story's all over the Hollywood Reporter and the Associated Press (thanks, Ian).

-- Annie Zaleski