Renowned R&B artist Roberta Flack, celebrated for her iconic tunes “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” and “Killing Me Softly With His Song,” has passed away at the age of 88.
In a statement from her representatives, it was revealed, “We are devastated to announce the loss of the legendary Roberta Flack on the morning of February 24, 2025. She departed peacefully surrounded by her family. Roberta shattered boundaries and achieved remarkable feats. She was also a dedicated educator.”
Flack had disclosed in 2022 that she had been battling motor neurone disease, which had rendered her unable to sing.
Born in North Carolina and raised in Arlington, Virginia, the skilled musician began her musical journey as a classical pianist. Awarded a full scholarship to Howard University at just 15, her classical background led her into the realm of teaching, while her nights were spent playing piano for opera singers and singing pop classics during intermissions.
Despite her classical training, Flack’s love for rhythm and blues was undeniable. Her breakout moment came when musician Les McCann discovered her singing in a jazz club, expressing that “her voice stirred every emotion I’ve ever known.”
Her career catapulted when her rendition of Ewan MacColl’s “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” was featured in Clint Eastwood’s 1971 film “Play Misty For Me,” winning her a Grammy for Song of the Year. She went on to claim a second Grammy with the hit “Killing Me Softly With His Song.”
Following chart-topping success with “Feel Like Makin’ Love” in 1974, Flack shifted her focus to recording and charitable endeavors. Collaborating with esteemed artists like Donny Hathaway and Miles Davis, she continued to make waves in the industry, even venturing into Beatles covers with the album “Let It Be Roberta” in 2012.
Recognized for her soulful delivery, Flack once stated, “A person with true soul is one who can take anybody’s song and transcend all the flaws, the technique and just make you listen.”
Despite personal struggles and health setbacks, Flack’s dedication to music never wavered. She was honored with a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2020, acknowledging her profound impact on the industry.
Her timeless hit “Killing Me Softly” found new life when The Fugees’ Grammy-winning cover introduced it to a new generation, culminating in a memorable joint performance with the group.
Roberta Flack’s legacy as a trailblazing artist and compassionate educator will forever resonate with music aficionados worldwide.
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