Roberta Flack, the iconic voice behind timeless classics such as “Killing Me Softly With His Song” and “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” has passed away at the age of 88, leaving behind a profound legacy in the music industry. A pioneer who masterfully blended soul, jazz, folk, and pop, Flack’s journey from a 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥 prodigy to a Grammy-winning artist spanned more than five decades, during which she touched the hearts of millions.
Born on February 10, 1937, in Black Mountain, North Carolina, Flack’s musical talent emerged early, influenced by her mother, who played piano at their Baptist church. She began piano lessons at age nine and, by 15, earned a full music scholarship to Howard University. Initially training in classical music, Flack eventually transitioned to teaching while performing at local jazz clubs, where her distinctive style began to flourish.
Her breakthrough came in 1972 when her rendition of “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” was featured in Clint Eastwood’s film “Play Misty for Me.” The song topped the Billboard charts for six weeks and won her a Grammy for Record of the Year. This success was soon followed by “Killing Me Softly,” which made her the first artist to win consecutive Grammys in the same category, solidifying her status as a musical powerhouse.
Flack’s collaborations, particularly with the late Donny Hathaway, produced unforgettable duets that showcased their incredible vocal chemistry. Despite Hathaway’s tragic passing in 1979, Flack continued to record and perform, collaborating with artists like Peabo Bryson and dedicating herself to education through the Roberta Flack School of Music in the Bronx.
Despite facing health challenges, including a stroke in 2018 and a later diagnosis of ALS, Flack remained a significant presence in the music world, her influence evident in the work of contemporary artists. With a net worth of $20 million at her passing, Flack lived in New York’s Dakota building for decades, embodying a life marked by both triumph and resilience.
Roberta Flack’s death on February 24, 2025, marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in music history, but her recordings continue to resonate, reminding us of the beauty and power of true artistry. Rest in peace, Roberta Flack; your voice will forever echo in the hearts of listeners worldwide.