Roberta Flack, the legendary singer whose voice defined an era of soul, jazz, and R&B, has passed away at the age of 88. Her representatives confirmed her peaceful passing on February 24, 2025, surrounded by family. Flack, who had been battling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) since 2022, leaves behind an extraordinary legacy that continues to shape the world of music.
The Voice That Touched Millions
Born on February 10, 1937, in Black Mountain, North Carolina, Roberta Flack rose to fame in the early 1970s with her deeply emotional and powerful performances. She captured the hearts of listeners with her smooth yet evocative voice, bringing songs to life in a way that few artists could.
Her breakout hit, The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face, catapulted her to international fame in 1972. The song, originally a folk ballad, was transformed into a hauntingly beautiful masterpiece by Flack, earning her the Grammy Award for Record of the Year in 1973. She followed up with Killing Me Softly with His Song, which won the same award in 1974, making her the first artist in history to win the Grammy for Record of the Year in consecutive years.
Beyond these timeless classics, Flack’s catalog includes unforgettable songs such as Feel Like Makin’ Love, Where Is the Love (with Donny Hathaway), and Tonight, I Celebrate My Love (with Peabo Bryson). Her ability to blend jazz, soul, and pop made her music universally cherished.
A Legacy Beyond Music
Roberta Flack was more than just a singer—she was an educator, a humanitarian, and a trailblazer for Black women in the music industry. Before her rise to fame, she was a music teacher in Washington, D.C., where she nurtured young talents and inspired the next generation of musicians.
Her commitment to education continued throughout her life. She founded the Roberta Flack School of Music in the Bronx, a program dedicated to providing free music education to underprivileged children. Her efforts to make music accessible to all solidified her influence beyond the recording studio.
Battling ALS with Grace
In 2022, Flack publicly revealed her diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurodegenerative disease that ultimately affected her ability to sing. Despite this, she remained passionate about music, expressing her love for the art form and its power to connect people.
Her final years were spent reflecting on her remarkable career, receiving numerous lifetime achievement awards, and inspiring countless fans with her resilience.
An Enduring Influence on Music
Roberta Flack’s influence can be seen in artists across generations, from Alicia Keys to Lauryn Hill, whose version of Killing Me Softly became a major hit in the 1990s with The Fugees. Her style of storytelling through song set a standard for emotional depth and authenticity in music.
Her songs continue to be streamed by millions worldwide, and her impact on the industry remains undeniable. Whether through her timeless recordings or the artists she influenced, Roberta Flack’s spirit will forever be a part of the musical landscape.
Remembering Roberta Flack
As we say goodbye to a true legend, we celebrate the beauty and passion she brought to the world. Roberta Flack’s music was more than just entertainment—it was an experience, a moment in time that lingers in the hearts of those who listened.
Her voice, her message, and her artistry will never be forgotten.
Rest in power, Roberta Flack. Your song will never fade.
