Donna Summer dies aged 63

Stars pay tribute as disco legend passes away...

09:46 18 May 2012

US singer Donna Summer has died at the age of 63.

Summer, who was famous for her disco classics such as I Feel Love and Love to Love you Baby, passed away after a battle with lung cancer, according to reports.

Donna's family said in a statement:

"Early this morning [17 May 2012], we lost Donna Summer Sudano, a woman of many gifts, the greatest being her faith.

"While we grieve her passing, we are at peace celebrating her extraordinary life and her continued legacy.

"Words truly can't express how much we appreciate your prayers and love for our family at this sensitive time."

Stars have been paying tribute to the singer, with R&B star Mary J Blige, Sir Elton John and Kylie Minogue all offering their condolences.

Blige posted on her Twitter page that Summer was a "game changer", while Dionne Warwick said she was sad to lose a great performer and "dear friend".

Elton John said Donner was more than the "queen of disco" and that "her records sound as good today as they ever did".

Summer won five Grammy Awards during her career and in 1979, became was the first black artist to win a Grammy in a rock category, with her song, Hot Stuff.