Vintage Photos of the Most Iconic ’70s Couples

They met in the late ’50s, but the ’70s exposed the full force of their volatile partnership. Together, they dominated stages with explosive performances—“Proud Mary,” sequins, sweat, and pure electricity—while behind the scenes, control and violence defined the relationship.

Tina finally left in 1976 with 36 cents and a gas card. The divorce followed, ending a nightmare marriage but launching one of pop’s greatest comebacks. By the ’80s, Tina was reborn—proof that survival could turn into superstardom.