Donna Summer: A Quiet Passing

I think I've mentioned that I was a musical snotball when I was young.

In the 1970s when many of my peeps were disco-mad and wore the clothes to prove it, I had long hair parted in the middle and actually wore a green army jacket with a peace sign stenciled on the back to school.

I campaigned actively against disco music which, ironically, in my older age not only doesn't sound so bad but brings me right back to a carefree time when my worries were no more serious than which Bay Ridge diner we'd hit after the movie...and would I order cheesecake or breakfast. 

I listened to Cat Stevens, Simon and Garfunkel, The Doors and sang Janis Joplin to my mirror when I was alone.

But breaking through this hippie-wannabee haze was always the strong voice and pulsing songs of Miss Donna Summer.

Today she passed away of lung cancer at the age of 66. She believes it may have been a result of inhaling the toxic air of 2001 New York City after 911....but who knows.

She will get a mention on the entertainment shows tonight and maybe a few more tomorrow. I doubt there will be public tears and huge crowds. Unlike Whitney, her passing -- not from self-abuse and a disregard for her own legacy and welfare -- will not be sensationalized and rehashed.

But Donna was, indeed, sensational....have a listen: 

                                                                 Thanks for the music, Donna.