Roberta Flack, the Grammy-winning singer renowned for her soulful hits such as “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” and “Killing Me Softly with His Song,” passed away on February 24, 2025, at the age of 88. She died peacefully at home, surrounded by family.
Born on February 10, 1937, in Black Mountain, North Carolina, Flack’s musical journey began early. A prodigious talent, she received a full music scholarship to Howard University at just 15. Initially aspiring to be a classical pianist, she transitioned to vocal performance, eventually captivating audiences with her unique blend of soul, jazz, and folk influences.
Flack’s breakthrough came when her rendition of “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” was featured in Clint Eastwood’s 1971 film “Play Misty for Me.” The song soared to No. 1 on the Billboard charts in 1972 and earned her a Grammy Award for Record of the Year. She made history by winning the same award consecutively in 1973 for “Killing Me Softly with His Song.”
Throughout the 1970s, Flack’s evocative voice and emotive performances solidified her status as a musical icon. Her collaborations with Donny Hathaway produced memorable duets like “Where Is the Love” and “The Closer I Get to You.” In the 1980s and 1990s, she continued to charm audiences with hits such as “Tonight, I Celebrate My Love” with Peabo Bryson and “Set the Night to Music” with Maxi Priest.
In 2022, Flack was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), which led her to retire from performing. Despite this, she remained active in her musical and creative endeavors, demonstrating resilience and passion for her art.
Roberta Flack’s profound impact on the music industry is evident through her timeless recordings and the inspiration she provided to countless artists. Her legacy as a trailblazer in soul and R&B music will continue to resonate with fans worldwide.