Donna Summer 'The Queen of Disco' Dies at 63

Culture

Donna Summer, the "Queen of Disco," passed away today at the age of 63. Her death came after a long battle with cancer. A five-time Grammy winner, Summer became famous in the 1970s with mega-hits like "Last Dance" and "Love to Love You Baby." Summer's success continued into the '80s with hits like "She Works Hard for the Money" and "This Time I Know It's for Real." 

Her sound changed the genre of dance music, and continues to impact the music scene today. Over the course of her career she recorded 18 albums including the 2008 album, Crayons -- her first recording in 17 years. 

While her illness was not sudden, the severity of it was kept under wraps. In a statement today her family said they were "at peace celebrating her extraordinary life and continued legacy." 

In a chorus of grief people around the world have taken to Twitter to pay their respects. Celebrities have also come out in support of the music icon. Let's dance the last dance in her honor.