Mark Coleman : Donna Summer , who died Thursday , defined the disco era of the '70s . Summer died from cancer Thursday at 63 . 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 had this incredible voice that could go from deep - throated whisper to high pitched wail with just one note.
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 had this incredible voice that could go from deep - throated whisper to high pitched wail with just one note.