Roberta Flack (February 10, 1937 – February 24, 2025) was an iconic American singer, pianist, and songwriter, celebrated for her soul-stirring ballads that blended R&B, jazz, folk, and pop. Her music played a pivotal role in shaping the quiet storm genre. With multiple Grammy Awards to her name, Flack became the first artist to win Record of the Year in back-to-back years. Her chart-topping hits include The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face, Killing Me Softly with His Song, and Feel Like Makin’ Love.
A Legacy of Musical Brilliance
Flack’s collaborations with Donny Hathaway led to timeless duets such as Where Is the Love and The Closer I Get to You. She continued making waves with hits like Tonight, I Celebrate My Love with Peabo Bryson and Set the Night to Music with Maxi Priest. Her work extended beyond performance, as she reimagined classics by artists like Leonard Cohen and The Beatles.
Early Life & Education
Born in Black Mountain, North Carolina, Flack grew up in a deeply musical environment. She displayed exceptional talent from a young age, earning a full music scholarship to Howard University at just 15. Originally studying piano, she later shifted her focus to voice and graduated at 19.
Rise to Stardom
Before her breakthrough, Flack worked as a teacher while performing in Washington, D.C.’s music scene. Her career took off when jazz musician Les McCann introduced her to Atlantic Records, leading to the release of First Take (1969). In 1972, Clint Eastwood featured The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face in Play Misty for Me, catapulting it to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for six weeks.
Grammy-Winning Career & Continued Influence
Flack’s 1973 hit Killing Me Softly with His Song became a cultural phenomenon, winning Record of the Year and Best Pop Vocal Performance, Female. She later influenced the quiet storm movement, blending sophisticated vocals with smooth R&B melodies.
Later Years & Impact
Honored with a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2020, Flack remained an inspiration. In 2022, she retired from performing due to ALS. Her music, marked by its emotional depth and elegance, continues to resonate worldwide.
Roberta Flack’s extraordinary career left an indelible mark on the music industry, ensuring her voice and artistry will be celebrated for generations to come.
