Roberta Flack, renowned for her timeless hits "Killing Me Softly With His Song" and "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face," has passed away at the age of 88. Confirmed by her representatives, it was reported that she peacefully departed surrounded by her loving family on February 24, 2025. Following her battle with motor neurone disease, Flack had expressed her challenges in continuing her musical career.
Roberta Flack, Iconic R&B Singer, Passes Away at 88
Roberta Flack, Iconic R&B Singer, Passes Away at 88
Legendary artist Roberta Flack has died peacefully, leaving behind a monumental legacy in music and education.
Flack, who was born in North Carolina and grew up in Virginia, embraced her musical journey as a classical pianist before transitioning to a celebrated vocalist. Her rise to fame was catalyzed by a chance performance in a jazz club, leading to a collaboration with musician Les McCann who famously remarked on the emotional depth of her voice.
Her monumental hit, "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face," achieved recognition as song of the year at the Grammys, thanks in part to its inclusion in Clint Eastwood's film, "Play Misty For Me." Flack’s incredible talent won her a second Grammy the following year for "Killing Me Softly," further solidifying her status in the music industry.
Beyond her chart-topping success in the 1970s, which included other classics like "Feel Like Makin' Love," Flack dedicated herself to studio work and her philanthropic endeavors. In collaboration with luminaries such as Donny Hathaway and Miles Davis, she explored various musical styles, exemplified by her 2012 album of Beatles covers.
Despite health setbacks, including a stroke in 2019, Flack was honored with a lifetime achievement award at the Grammys in 2020. Reflecting on her career, she stated, "This award is a validation to me that my peers heard my thoughts and took in what I have tried to give," emphasizing her passion for storytelling through music.
Roberta Flack's profound impact on music and education will be cherished by generations to come.
Her monumental hit, "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face," achieved recognition as song of the year at the Grammys, thanks in part to its inclusion in Clint Eastwood's film, "Play Misty For Me." Flack’s incredible talent won her a second Grammy the following year for "Killing Me Softly," further solidifying her status in the music industry.
Beyond her chart-topping success in the 1970s, which included other classics like "Feel Like Makin' Love," Flack dedicated herself to studio work and her philanthropic endeavors. In collaboration with luminaries such as Donny Hathaway and Miles Davis, she explored various musical styles, exemplified by her 2012 album of Beatles covers.
Despite health setbacks, including a stroke in 2019, Flack was honored with a lifetime achievement award at the Grammys in 2020. Reflecting on her career, she stated, "This award is a validation to me that my peers heard my thoughts and took in what I have tried to give," emphasizing her passion for storytelling through music.
Roberta Flack's profound impact on music and education will be cherished by generations to come.
