Mark Coleman : Donna Summer , who died Thursday , defined the disco era of the ' 70s . He says her music first found popularity in NYC 's gay club scene , then gained national fame . He says her ` ` Love to Love You Baby '' was a popular , controversial and influential hit . Coleman : She developed as artist over years , but her disco hits are biggest legacy .
Mark Coleman : Donna Summer , who died Thursday , defined the disco era of the '70s . He says her music first found audience in NYC 's gay club scene , then gained national fame . He says her `` Love to Love You Baby '' was a racy , controversial and influential hit . Coleman : She developed as artist over years , but her disco hits are biggest legacy .