The Roberta Flack obituary
The Softly Singer ‘Roberta Flack’ Killing dies aged 88
Flack died from cardiac arrest en route to a hospital in Manhattan.
Born on February 10, 1937, in Black Mountain, North Carolina, Flack’s early exposure to music came from her parents; both were pianists, and her mother also played the organ in church. This rich musical environment fostered her passion, leading her to receive a full music scholarship at Howard University at the age of 15. Initially aspiring to be a classical pianist, she later transitioned to vocal performance, a decision that would define her illustrious career.
Flack’s breakthrough came in the late 1960s when she was discovered performing in a Washington, D.C., nightclub. Her unique blend of jazz, soul, and folk music resonated with audiences, leading to a contract with Atlantic Records in 1968. Her rendition of “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” gained massive popularity after being featured in Clint Eastwood’s 1971 film “Play Misty for Me,” earning her a Grammy Award for Record of the Year in 1973.
Throughout the 1970s, Flack’s soulful voice and emotive performances solidified her status as a music icon. She achieved the remarkable feat of winning consecutive Grammy Awards for Record of the Year with “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” and “Killing Me Softly with His Song.” Her collaborations with Donny Hathaway, including hits like “Where Is the Love” and “The Closer I Get to You,” further showcased her versatility and deep connection to the themes of love and human experience.
In 2022, Flack was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a condition that made it “impossible to sing,” leading to her retirement from performing.
en.wikipedia.org Despite this, her legacy continued to inspire artists across genres, with her music being covered and sampled by numerous musicians, including the Fugees’ notable rendition of “Killing Me Softly.”
Roberta Flack’s contributions to music were recognized with a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2020, honoring her enduring impact on the industry. Her ability to convey profound emotion through her music has left an indelible mark on the hearts of listeners worldwide. As we remember her life and legacy, her soulful melodies continue to resonate, ensuring that her voice remains a timeless presence in the world of music.
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