House Call
Renowned Gospel Singer Dennis Turner & The Turtle Nation Family Honor Reverend Jesse Jackson with New Single “Iconic to Me”
Renowned singer Dennis Turner, alongside his gospel ensemble Dennis Turner & The Turtle Nation Family, pays a heartfelt tribute to the life and legacy of Reverend Jesse Jackson with their stirring new single,
“Iconic to Me,” released Friday, February 27, 2026 and now streaming on all digital platforms. Click to listen.
The powerful anthem celebrates Jackson’s historic contributions to civil rights, social justice, and faith, capturing the spirit of a man whose courage inspired generations.
More than a tribute, “Iconic to Me” is deeply personal. As a young boy growing up in Sugar Ditch in Tunica, Mississippi, once cited by CBS’s 60 Minutes as the poorest place in America, Dennis Turner vividly remembers when Rev. Jackson visited the area.
Hearing Jackson speak during that visit became a life-changing moment.
His words uplifted and inspired Turner, showing him that he could be anything he wanted to be and helping him realize there was a bigger world beyond Mississippi.
That encounter planted seeds of purpose, faith, and possibility that continue to shape Turner’s life and ministry today.
Through soaring harmonies and uplifting melodies, Dennis Turner and his family reflect on the marches, movements, and defining moments that shaped Jackson’s extraordinary life.
The song’s narrative honors a leader whose fearless faith and relentless pursuit of justice opened doors for countless individuals to dream bigger and walk confidently in purpose.
Rather than simply recount history, the anthem calls listeners to carry the legacy forward, to live boldly, serve faithfully, and recognize the greatness within themselves.
About Dennis Turner & The Turtle Nation Family
Born in Tunica, Mississippi, Dennis Turner rose from humble beginnings in Sugar Ditch to become an accomplished singer, producer, motivational speaker, author, and educator. Click to watch.
His powerful life story is chronicled in his book and stage play, The Boy from the Ditch, which details his journey from poverty to purpose and national impact.
Dr. Dennis Turner holds a Doctorate in Education (Ed.D) and serves as a Professor at Livingstone College, further strengthening his ties to the community and his commitment to empowering the next generation through both education and ministry.
His group, Dennis Turner & The Turtle Nation Family, is one of gospel’s beloved musical families, performing throughout the country in cities including New York City, Memphis, Tennessee, Huntsville, Alabama, Miami, Florida, and across North Carolina.
Dennis Turner & The Turtle Nation Family released their debut album, Faith, in April 2017, followed by two singles: Children of God in July 2018 and Father’s House in November 2018.
On March of 2020, they released their sophomore album, I Press… Now, and their highly anticipated junior project, Why We Sing, featuring the entire family, dropped in October 2022.
Continuing their musical journey, the group released their latest album, Family Affair, in December 2024.
Fast forward to 2026, they return with their newest single, “Iconic to Me,” a timely and heartfelt tribute honoring the enduring legacy of Reverend Jesse Jackson and the profound personal impact he had on Dennis Turner’s life.
Reflecting on Jackson’s influence, Turner shares:
“When Rev. Jesse Jackson came to Sugar Ditch and I heard him speak, it changed my life. He made me believe there was more beyond what I could see. ‘Iconic to Me’ is my way of saying thank you for showing us that faith, courage, and vision can take you anywhere.”
With “Iconic to Me,” Dennis Turner & The Turtle Nation Family offer more than a song, they deliver a musical salute to a legend whose leadership, courage, and faith transformed history and continues to inspire generations.
Click here to purchase The Boy in the Ditch on Amazon.
Follow Dennis Turner & The Turtle Nation Family on social media: turtlenation32 and online at turtlenationministries.com
