Tributes have been flooding in from all over to the world for disco queen Donna Summer, who died yesterday after a ten month battle with cancer at the age of 63.
President Barack Obama was among those who released a statement, saying of Summer: "Her voice was unforgettable. The music industry has lost a legend far too soon." Dolly Parton, Dionne Warwick, Sir Elton John and Barbara Streisand also voiced their sympathy in statements online.
Summer's hits included 'Love To Love You Baby', 'I Feel Love' and 'State of Independence' has been fighting lung cancer which, according to reports, Summer believed was caused by dust from the 9/11 attacks in New York City containing lead, asbestos and mercury. Summer was within a few blocks of the World Trade Centre on the day of the attack.
Summer kept the severity of her illness from the media and fans, only telling her family that she was dying. It is expected that her funeral will take place in Nashville on Monday. Her family said in a statement that they were "at peace celebrating her extraordinary life and continued legacy."
Summer had been residing in Naples, Florida with husband Bruce Sudano. She is survived by their daughters Brooklyn and Amanda and Mimi, her daughter from a previous marriage.
We will miss Donna Summer! She changed the world of music with her beautiful voice and incredible talent.
— Janet Jackson (@JanetJackson) May 17, 2012
Rest in Peace dear Donna Summer.Your voice was the heartbeat and soundtrack of a decade.
— Quincy Jones (@QuincyDJones) May 17, 2012
One of my earliest musical inspirations, RIP Donna Summer #BadGirlsForEver
— kylie minogue (@kylieminogue) May 17, 2012
For the last half hour or so I've been lying in my bed crying and stunned. Donna Summer RIP fb.me/15xygMV45
— Nile Rodgers (@nilerodgers) May 17, 2012