The world mourns the loss of Roberta Flack, the soulful voice behind timeless classics, as she passes away at 88.
An Iconic Career
Born in Black Mountain, N.C., Roberta Flack was a child prodigy, earning a full scholarship to Howard University at 15. Her career spanned several decades, producing nearly two dozen albums. She succeeded wildly with songs such as “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” and “Killing Me Softly With His Song.”
I’m deeply saddened by the passing of the legendary #RobertaFlack, one of the greatest musicians and vocalists of all time.
Her voice and music shaped the very fabric of American culture, bringing depth, soul, and meaning to generations. But beyond her artistry, she was a… pic.twitter.com/7EKOIsz4qC
— Reverend Al Sharpton (@TheRevAl) February 24, 2025
Despite facing health challenges late in her life, her legacy in music remained unshaken, inspiring new talents like Lauryn Hill and Alicia Keys. “Roberta broke boundaries and records. She was also a proud educator,” her representatives have said.
A Transformative Force
Roberta Flack was not just a performer but a transformative force in music. Her unique blend of classical training and soulful artistry earned her the Recording Academy’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2020. She became the first solo artist to win consecutive Grammy Awards for Record of the Year, impacting the R&B and soul genres.
Rest in peace to Howard graduate, classically trained pianist, songwriter, singer, & the first artist to ever win a Grammy for Record of the Year in two consecutive years, Miss Roberta Flack. Her & her fellow songwriter Donny Hathaway are now reunited. pic.twitter.com/RsL2q35O9P
— Queer Latifah 🥂 (@TheAfrocentricI) February 24, 2025
“I made it 100% on music.” – Roberta Flack.
Her journey began in D.C. nightclubs, catching the eye of music greats and leading to her debut album “First Take.” The Fugees’ cover of “Killing Me Softly” in the mid-90s further solidified her influence on music. Flack’s association with Donny Hathaway in the ’70s also produced several timeless tracks.
Legacy and Influence
Flack’s work pushed the boundaries of contemporary definitions of Black music. Despite being undervalued by some legacy institutions, her music brought civil rights themes and messages of love to mainstream audiences. Her performances at significant events, like Jackie Robinson’s funeral, strengthened her place in music history.
“I think everything you do as a Black person in this country represents a struggle for survival.” – Roberta Flack.
In addition to her musical achievements, Flack founded the Roberta Flack School of Music and the Roberta Flack Foundation. Her love for the arts and dedication to animal welfare initiatives empowered many lives. Her music, ethos, and life’s work will continue to inspire future generations.
Sources:
https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/music/story/2025-02-24/roberta-flack-dead-obit
https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/music/story/2025-02-24/roberta-flack-dead-obit
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-14430557/Roberta-flack-death-age-killing-softly.html