Disco queen Donna Summer, famous for songs including "Feel Love" and "Hot Stuff," died on Thursday at the age of 63, she had been battling cancer.

"Early this morning, surrounded by family, 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," her family said in a statement.

The US singer, nicknamed the "Queen of Disco," released a string of hits during the disco era of the 1970s and 80s.

During her lengthy career Summer won five Grammy awards, including best female vocalist in 1980 and best dance recording in 1997. Her last album "Crayons" was released in 2008.

ccp/msh (AFP, AP, Reuters)