Roberta Flack, the Grammy-winning singer known for her soulful ballads, has passed away at 88, leaving behind a legacy of timeless music that touched millions.
At a Glance
- Roberta Flack, renowned for hits like “Killing Me Softly With His Song,” died at 88 on February 24, 2025
- She won back-to-back Grammy Awards for Record of the Year in 1973 and 1974, a first for any artist
- Flack battled ALS in her final years, which affected her ability to sing and speak
- Her musical career spanned decades, with 15 albums and 5 Grammy wins out of 14 nominations
- Flack was also an educator and civil rights advocate, expressing deep messages through her music
A Voice That Defined an Era
Roberta Flack, the voice behind iconic hits such as “Killing Me Softly With His Song” and “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Her passing at the age of 88 on February 24, 2025, marks the end of an era in American music. Flack’s unique style, often described as intimate and soulful, earned her critical acclaim and a devoted fan base that spanned generations.
Born in North Carolina, Flack’s musical journey began early when she learned to play the piano as a child. Her talent was evident from a young age, earning her a full scholarship to Howard University at just 15 years old. This early start in music education would later influence her approach to her craft, blending classical training with soul and pop sensibilities.
A Career Marked by Groundbreaking Achievements
Flack’s career took off in the early 1970s 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’s success catapulted her to stardom, earning her the first of many Grammy Awards. Her ability to convey deep emotion through her music resonated with audiences and critics alike.
Flack’s impact on the music industry was profound. She achieved a feat unmatched at the time by winning Grammy Awards for Record of the Year in both 1973 and 1974. This accomplishment solidified her place in music history and demonstrated her ability to produce consistently exceptional work.
A Legacy Beyond Music
While Flack’s musical achievements are remarkable, her influence extended beyond the recording studio. She was a proud educator and an advocate for civil rights, using her platform to address important social issues. Her music often carried personal and deep messages, reflecting her commitment to making a difference through her art.
“I always say that ‘love is a song’ — meaning that music reaches beyond age, race, nationality and religion to touch our hearts,” Flack once said, encapsulating her philosophy on the power of music to unite people.
In her later years, Flack faced health challenges, including a battle with ALS that affected her ability to sing and speak. Despite these obstacles, she remained determined to stay connected to music through her foundation and other creative endeavors. Her manager, Suzanne Koga, stated, “The ALS diagnosis made it impossible to sing and not easy to speak. But it will take a lot more than ALS to silence this icon.”
A Lasting Influence on American Music
Roberta Flack’s career spanned over five decades, during which she released 15 albums and earned 14 Grammy nominations, winning five. Her unique style, which came to be known as “quiet storm,” influenced countless artists and helped shape the landscape of American popular music.
“Her voice touched, tapped, trapped and kicked every emotion I’ve ever known. I laughed, cried and screamed for more … she alone had the voice,” said Les McCann, reflecting on Flack’s incomparable talent.
As we bid farewell to this musical legend, we are reminded of the enduring power of her songs and the indelible mark she left on American culture. Roberta Flack’s legacy will continue to inspire and move audiences for generations to come, ensuring that her voice, though now silent, will never truly be forgotten.
