The Queen of Disco known for defining dance music in the 70s through her soaring voice passed away after a battle with cancer kept private by those close to her.
Speaking of a hit list that includes I Feel Love, Love to Love You Baby and Working the Midnight Shift, Elton John said Summer's records 'sound as good today as they ever did'. Adding, 'that she has never been indicted into the Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame is a total disgrace especially when I see the second-rate talent that has been inducted'.
As well as her phenomenal musical legacy, Summer was a style icon of the true Diva mould thanks to her sparkly gowns, fur coats and photo-finish hair and make-up. A fashion industry favourite, in 2010 Summer performed at a Louis Vuitton party as well as a Dolce & Gabbana event to celebrate its 20th birthday.
ELLE Editor in Chief Lorraine Candy said, 'Donna Summer was the 'surprise' guest at Dolce and Gabbana's 20th birthday celebration. She was alone in the spotlight in front of the world's fashion press, supermodels and celebrities and her performance was spellbinding and brought us out in goosebumps. It was a privilege to be there. Her musical and style influences have been felt through the industry for many years and I've seen countless catwalk shows open and close with her unique voice. She has inspired and enthused a generation. I have never been to a fashion party without dancing to Donna at some point'.
The industry mourns
'One of my earliest musical inspirations, RIP Donna Summer #BadGirlsForever'. Kylie Minogue
'Sadly Yes. RIP #dearDonna'. Rihanna
'Truly a game changer'. Mary J Blige
'I had my first kiss at 15 to Donna Summer's 'I Feel Love'. It's a long record :) Disco wouldn't be disco without Donna. She did diva in a natural way - she owned it! Her make-up was her trademark and hair was a big part of her look'. Sharon Dowsett, make-up artist
‘I always loved the high octane camp glamour of Donna Summer - she has inspired so many of my earlier collections. Her long silver shimmering gowns and disco sounds will live on forever - she is the ultimate disco queen.’ Julien Macdonald
'She Works Hard for the Money reminds me of being a kid in my dads salon on Kings road wishing I was old enough to go out on a Saturday night with the stylists – it's a true reflection of the 80's with its synthesized background. The video is like a mini film – super graphic but just felt so of its time. Last Dance brings out my camp side but also makes me wish I was alive in the 70's at studio 54. And the hair... her big afro curly bob hair still looks great – it has a glamour to it that I think is somehow missing today. It's still one of my favourite references'. Luke Hersheson
'Donna Summer- you have inspired me in so many ways.....'. Solange Knowles
'My condolence to #Donna Summer's family and loved ones. She will be terribly missed. She was truly the #disco Queen!' La Toya Jackson
'I remember sitting in the front seat of my mum's toyotal while she sang Donna Summer's 'she works hard for the money' songs were just classic'. Ryan Seacrest
'Upon hearing this (I Feel Love) in 1976, Brian Eno told David Bowie that he had 'heard the future'. He had. RIP Donna Summer. :('. Ladytron
'Oh my goodness just heard the sad news about Donna Summer. A true diva and disco queen her music will keep people dancing forever xxx'. Little Boots
'Rest in Peace dear Donna summer. Your voice was the heartbeat and soundtrack of a decade.' Quincy Jones
'woah! Donna Summer is now in Disco Heaven'. Flea
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