Dolly, Liza, Janet, Ellen, Other Celebs React To Death of Donna Summer

Janet Jackson says the late Donna Summer "changed the world of music with her beautiful voice and incredible talent," while Dolly Parton says Summer had "one of the greatest voices ever."

"We will miss Donna Summer! She changed the world of music with her beautiful voice and incredible talent," Jackson says in a statement released to the media.

Parton also released a public statement about the singer who died of lung cancer at age 63. "I can't believe we've lost another wonderful singer. Donna, like Whitney, had one of the greatest voices ever. I loved her records. She was the disco queen, and will remain so. I knew her and found her to be one of the most likable and fun people ever. She will be missed and remembered."

Liza Minnelli, who was friends with the singer, says, "When you lose a friend you feel like they are gone forever. That is not true with my dear friend Donna. She was a queen, THE Queen of Disco, and we will be dancing to her music forever."

Ellen DeGeneres commented via Twitter, saying, "I'm so sad about the news that Donna Summer died this morning. I was a big fan. I even used one of her songs in my show that airs today."

A statement from Aretha Franklin reads, "So shocking to hear about the passing of Donna Summer. In the '70s, she reigned over the disco era and kept the disco jumping. Who will forget "Last Dance." A fine performer and a very nice person."

Gloria Estefan noted the late singer's impact, saying, "Few singers have impacted music & the world like Donna Summer! It's the end of an era. Peace & prayers 2 all who loved her."

Gloria Gaynor, another performer who found fame during the disco era, says, "She not only made her mark in my heart as well as others, but she forever changed the way of how America danced and enjoyed themselves. She may have had her 'Last Dance' here on earth, but 'Heaven Knows' it is dancing with joy for her arrival."

Hip-hop artist Nicki Minaj was also saddened by Summer's passing, saying, "Wow, another legend gone. Rest in peace to the beautiful disco queen Donna Summer."

The impact of Summer's musical legacy is so significant that even President Barack Obama released a statement, saying, "Michelle and I were saddened to hear about the passing of Donna Summer. A five-time Grammy Award winner, Donna truly was the "Queen of Disco." Her voice was unforgettable, and the music industry has lost a legend far too soon. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Donna's family and her dedicated fans."