In very sad and unexpected news, disco legend Donna Summer has passed away at the age of 63.

Update: Donna Summer’s family has released a statement on her death today:

Early this morning, 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. Words truly can’t express how much we appreciate your prayers and love for our family at this sensitive time.

Previously: According to TMZ, Summer died earlier this morning in Florida after a lengthy battle with cancer.

Sources close to Summer tell us … the singer was trying to keep the extent of her illness under wraps. We spoke to someone who was with Summer a couple of weeks ago … who says she didn’t seem too bad.

In fact, we’re told she was focused on trying to finish up an album she had been working on.

Summer was a 5-time Grammy winner who shot to superstardom in the ’70s with iconic hits like “Last Dance,” “Hot Stuff” and “Bad Girls.”

She is survived by her husband and two daughters. Condolences to her family, friends, and fans.