“Donna Summer made music that moved me both emotionally and physically to get up and dance,” Beyoncé said in a statement. “You could always hear the deep passion in her voice. She was so much more than the Queen of Disco she became known for, she was an honest and gifted singer with flawless vocal talent. I’ve always been a huge fan and was honored to sample one of her songs. She touched many generations and will be so sadly missed.”
Beyoncé, who’s currently rehearsing for her Memorial Weekend shows at Atlantic City resort Revel, sampled Summer’s 1976 “Love to Love You, Baby” on “Naughty Girl” from her debut album Dangerously in Love.
Summer died Thursday after a long battle with lung cancer. She was 63. During her illustrious career she earned five Grammy awards and charted over 30 number one hits in her 38-year career.
The family has yet to announce funeral plans, however they have confirmed a public memorial service will be held in Nashville, Tennessee next Wednesday, May 23.
