Legendary singer Roberta Flack, whose soulful voice defined a generation with hits like "Killing Me Softly with His Song" and "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face", has passed away at the age of 88. Her family confirmed that she died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones.
A Musical Legacy That Defined an Era
Born on February 10, 1937, in Black Mountain, North Carolina, Flack’s musical journey was nothing short of extraordinary. Trained as a classical pianist, she originally aspired to a career in opera but found her true calling in soul, R&B, and jazz.
Her big break came when Clint Eastwood featured her song "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" in his 1971 film Play Misty for Me. The song became a massive hit, earning Flack her first Grammy Award for Record of the Year in 1973. She made history the following year by winning Record of the Year again, this time for "Killing Me Softly with His Song", making her the first solo artist to win the award in consecutive years.
A Career of Timeless Music
Beyond her solo career, Flack had a legendary collaboration with Donny Hathaway, with whom she recorded classic duets like "Where Is the Love" and "The Closer I Get to You". Her music seamlessly blended jazz, soul, folk, and pop, making her one of the most versatile artists of her time.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, she continued to release chart-topping albums, influencing generations of artists.
Health Struggles and Final Years
In 2022, Flack was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, which led to her retirement from performing. Despite her illness, she remained deeply involved in music education, advocating for young musicians through her Roberta Flack School of Music, which provides free education to underprivileged students.
Tributes Pour in for a Legend
Following news of her passing, tributes flooded in from artists, fans, and industry figures:
- Stevie Wonder called her "a voice of pure emotion and soul, unmatched in its depth."
- Alicia Keys praised her as "a trailblazer whose music will never fade."
- Former President Barack Obama honored her for "her contributions to American music and culture, touching the hearts of millions."
A Lasting Influence
Roberta Flack’s music continues to inspire new generations, proving that true artistry never fades. Her songs remain some of the most heartfelt and emotionally powerful ever recorded, and her impact on soul, R&B, and pop music is undeniable.
As we remember her unparalleled voice and timeless songs, her legacy lives on through the music she left behind.
Roberta Flack, 1937–2025 – A voice that will never be forgotten.