Roberta Flack, the legendary R&B singer famous for her chart-topping hits like "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" and "Killing Me Softly With His Song," has died at the age of 88, as confirmed by her representatives. Flack passed away surrounded by her family early this morning, February 24, 2025. Flack was not only a musical powerhouse but also an influential educator, breaking barriers and records throughout her remarkable career.
Roberta Flack, Iconic R&B Singer, Passes Away Aged 88
Roberta Flack, Iconic R&B Singer, Passes Away Aged 88
Beloved singer-songwriter Roberta Flack, known for her timeless hits, has passed away peacefully at the age of 88, leaving behind a legacy that transcended music.
Born in North Carolina and raised in Arlington, Virginia, Roberta Flack initially began her journey as a classical pianist, gaining a full scholarship to Howard University at just 15 years old. While her education focused on classical music, Flack's passion for rhythm and blues led her to perform in jazz clubs, where she was discovered by musician Les McCann. Her breakout hit came in her 30s when "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" featured in Clint Eastwood's 1971 film "Play Misty for Me," winning her the Grammy for Song of the Year. She followed this success with another Grammy for "Killing Me Softly With His Song," dominating the charts once again with "Feel Like Makin' Love" in 1974.
Despite stepping back to focus on charitable causes during the 1980s, Flack remained active in music and collaborated with various artists, including a duet with Maxi Priest in 1991 and an album of Beatles covers in 2012 titled "Let It Be Roberta." Renowned for her soulful singing style, she explained her artistic philosophy: "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.”
Throughout her lifetime, Flack's artistry left a profound impact on the music industry, even inspiring contemporary artists. Her song "Killing Me Softly" gained renewed attention when covered by The Fugees in 1996, further solidifying her place in musical history. The recipient of numerous accolades, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2020, Flack's legacy will continue to resonate with generations of fans and musicians alike.
Despite stepping back to focus on charitable causes during the 1980s, Flack remained active in music and collaborated with various artists, including a duet with Maxi Priest in 1991 and an album of Beatles covers in 2012 titled "Let It Be Roberta." Renowned for her soulful singing style, she explained her artistic philosophy: "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.”
Throughout her lifetime, Flack's artistry left a profound impact on the music industry, even inspiring contemporary artists. Her song "Killing Me Softly" gained renewed attention when covered by The Fugees in 1996, further solidifying her place in musical history. The recipient of numerous accolades, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2020, Flack's legacy will continue to resonate with generations of fans and musicians alike.
