Roberta Flack, the iconic singer whose soulful voice shaped the sound of the 1970s with timeless hits like "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" and "Killing Me Softly with His Song," has passed away at the age of 88, according to a statement from her representative. The cause of death was not disclosed.
“We are heartbroken that the glorious Roberta Flack passed away this morning, February 24, 2025,” the statement read. “She died peacefully, surrounded by her family. Roberta broke boundaries and records. She was also a proud educator.”
A Musical Prodigy Turned Global Star
Born in Black Mountain, North Carolina, Flack grew up in a deeply musical household, influenced by gospel greats Mahalia Jackson and Sam Cooke. A gifted pianist, she began studying classical piano at just nine years old and, by 15, had earned a full scholarship to Howard University.
Although she initially pursued a career in education, Flack’s passion for music led her to Washington, D.C.'s nightclub scene. It was there that jazz pianist Les McCann discovered her talent and introduced her to Atlantic Records, setting the stage for her rise to stardom.
Breakthrough Success with “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face”
Flack’s debut album, First Take (1969), initially received modest attention. However, her career took a dramatic turn when Clint Eastwood featured her 1969 recording of "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" in his film Play Misty for Me (1971). The song skyrocketed to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, spending six weeks at the top and earning Flack her first Grammy Award for Record of the Year.
Dominating the Charts in the 1970s
Following her breakthrough, Flack became a dominant force in both pop and R&B. Her second No. 1 hit, "Killing Me Softly with His Song" (1973), cemented her place in music history, winning her a second Grammy for Record of the Year, a feat that wouldn’t be repeated until U2 achieved the same milestone in 2001-02.
She continued to release successful duets with Donny Hathaway, including the Grammy-winning "Where Is the Love" (1972) and "The Closer I Get to You" (1978), both of which became defining ballads of the era.
Her 1974 hit "Feel Like Makin’ Love" became her third No. 1 pop single, solidifying her ability to blend R&B, jazz, and pop into a signature sound.
Later Career and Legacy
Though the late 1970s and 1980s saw shifts in musical trends, Flack continued to create meaningful work. She collaborated with Peabo Bryson on the 1983 duet "Tonight, I Celebrate My Love" and later recorded "Set the Night to Music" with Maxi Priest in 1991. Her final studio album, Let It Be Roberta (2012), was a tribute to The Beatles.
Flack, nominated for 13 Grammy Awards, remained an influential figure in R&B, jazz, and pop well into the new millennium.
A Lasting Impact
Described as "urbane, genteel, and jazzy" by music critic Peter Shapiro, Flack’s artistry bridged genres and generations. From her elegant ballads to her impeccable musicianship, she shaped the landscape of contemporary soul music.
Though she is no longer with us, Roberta Flack’s voice will forever echo through the songs that touched the hearts of millions.
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