The world united in mourning as the legendary Roberta Flack was laid to rest in a deeply emotional public funeral attended by fans, celebrities, and music industry giants. The ceremony, while heavy with grief, celebrated Flack’s unparalleled legacy as a vocalist whose timeless voice resonated across generations.
As tributes poured in, whispers of the struggles Flack faced in her final days began to emerge. Close friends and family revealed the devastating battles she encountered, including illness and unexpected financial hardships, contrasting sharply with the glamorous life many imagined for the music icon. Flack passed away at age 88 on February 24, 2025, following a diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in August 2022.
Social media was flooded with heartfelt messages from fellow artists mourning her loss. Jennifer Hudson shared a touching tribute on X, expressing sadness at the passing of “one of the great soul singers of all time.” Julian Lennon and his brother, Sean Ono Lennon, also honored their family’s close friend, recalling her kindness and talent. Kelly Rowland reflected on the beauty Flack brought to her life, while Reverend Al Sharpton emphasized her role as a musician and activist who shaped American culture.
Roberta Cleopatra Flack, đđ¨đŤđ§ on February 10, 1937, in Black Mountain, North Carolina, began her musical journey surrounded by gospel and classical influences. After earning a scholarship to Howard University, she initially aimed to be a classical pianist but found her true calling in jazz and R&B. Flack’s career took off after the release of her debut album, “First Take,” which included the iconic hit “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face.”
Her signature style, characterized by raw emotion and elegance, solidified her status as a musical legend. Over the decades, she produced numerous hits, including “Killing Me Softly with His Song,” earning multiple Grammy Awards and leaving an indelible mark on R&B, soul, and pop music. Despite facing health challenges in later years, Flack’s contributions to music and her mentorship of aspiring artists ensure her legacy will endure.
