Rock pioneer Ike Turner, whose legacy has been thwarted by a history of physical abuse toward former wife, Tina Turner, died at age 76 in his San Diego home, according to TMZ.

Turner -- real name Izear Luster Turner, Jr. -- began his career as the bandleader of Ike Turner's Kings of Rhythm. The group released their most famous recording 'Rocket 88,' which has been dubbed the "first rock and roll record," in 1951.

He would later become known for being the brain behind the R&B duo Ike and Tina Turner, writing and producing their '60s and early '70s hits such as 'A Fool in Love,' 'It's Gonna Work Out Fine,' 'River Deep, Mountain High," 'Proud Mary' and 'Nutbush City Limits.' Ike and Tina parted ways in 1976.