R.I.P. Donna Summer

LaDonna Adrian Gaines (Donna Summer) was born in Boston, Ma on December 31, 1948. Her love for music and performing shown through, even in the early years of her life. She was musically influenced by such powerful houses as Mahalia Jackson. Later on she began to imitate the sounds of Motown coming up with a "supreme-like" sound with her sister and cousin in her home town performances.


 She began her career as a character in the musical Hair in Germany. After being featured in a couple more european musicals, in 1973 she began performing in the group  FamilyTree.  "The Queen of Disco's" first album, Lady Of The Night, was not an american release although it found small success on the European circuit Later in 1975 she released the better known single "Love to Love You Baby" Which found success in the UK, reaching the Top 5. In 1976 it reached #2 in the Billboard Hot 100. She is most memorably known for her hits "I Feel Love","Heaven Knows", "Last Dance", and in the 80's "She Works Hard For Her Money." 

This musical Diva was known for her powerful vocals and memorable lyrics. Donna defiantly has influenced many of the female pop singers of today. Her contributions to the genres of Disco and Pop made her a legend and a Queen in her own right.


On Thursday May 17, 2012, Summer died at her home in Key West, Florida after a long battle with lung cancer. With open and hearts and prayerful minds we hope that her name and spirit may rest in peace.