Singer Natalie Cole dead at 65

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 1 (UPI) -- Beloved recording artist Natalie Cole has died from congestive heart failure in a Los Angeles hospital. She was 65.

"It is with heavy hearts that we bring to you all the news of our Mother and sister's passing. Natalie fought a fierce, courageous battle, dying how she lived... with dignity, strength and honor. Our beloved Mother and sister will be greatly missed and remain UNFORGETTABLE in our hearts forever," her family said in a statement Friday.

TMZ reported Cole had been suffering from complications from a kidney transplant and Hepatitis C, and was forced to cancel several recent shows shortly before her death.

The daughter of music legend Nat King Cole was best known for her hit songs "This Will Be" and "Unforgettable," which she performed as a virtual duet with her late dad.