In brief
Roberta Flack, the celebrated R&B singer best known for chart-topping hits such as "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" and "Killing Me Softly With His Song," has passed away at the age of 88. Her passing on February 24, 2025, was confirmed by her representatives in a heartfelt statement expressing their sorrow. Flack had bravely dealt with motor neurone disease, which had limited her ability to perform since 2022.
Born in North Carolina and raised in Virginia, Flack's roots were deeply embedded in music from a young age. She secured a full scholarship to Howard University at just 15, where she pursued classical piano before branching into popular music. It was in a jazz club where her talent was first recognized by musician Les McCann, eventually leading to her breakout career.Flack's significant acclaim began with her first hit in her 30s, when "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" became an iconic piece in Clint Eastwood's film "Play Misty For Me," earning her a Grammy for Song of the Year. She repeated this success with the heartfelt "Killing Me Softly With His Song," showcasing her unique ability to convey deep emotion through music.Later in her career, Flack took a hiatus from live performances, focusing instead on producing music and supporting charitable efforts. She collaborated with artists like Donny Hathaway and released a successful duet with Maxi Priest in 1991, continuing to contribute to the music scene well into the later years of her life.Recognized as a "true soul" singer, Flack believed in transcending technical flaws through heartfelt performance. Her impact was also felt in the educational realm, where she worked to inspire young musicians through her school of music in New York.Flack's music remained influential; a notable resurgence came in 1996 when The Fugees covered "Killing Me Softly," reintroducing her artistry to a new audience. Furthermore, she was honored with a lifetime achievement award by the Grammys in 2020, validating her impact on the music industry. Roberta Flack's legacy as an artist and educator will continue to resonate with generations to come.
