In brief
The iconic R&B artist Roberta Flack, renowned for timeless classics like “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” and “Killing Me Softly With His Song,” has sadly passed away at the age of 88. Flack’s representatives confirmed her death, stating she left this world surrounded by her loving family.
Born in North Carolina and raised in Arlington, Virginia, Flack initially pursued a career as a classical pianist, teaching music before being discovered singing at a jazz club by musician Les McCann. Her first major breakthrough came in her 30s when her rendition of Ewan MacColl's “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” gained immense popularity after being featured in Clint Eastwood's film “Play Misty For Me” in 1971, ultimately winning a Grammy for Song of the Year. She captured the award again the following year with “Killing Me Softly With His Song,” solidifying her status as a leading figure in the music industry.The talented artist enjoyed tremendous success in the 1970s, topping the charts with hits such as “Feel Like Makin' Love.” However, she took a hiatus from live performances in order to focus on her recording career and philanthropic endeavors. Over the years, Flack collaborated with many notable artists, including Donny Hathaway and Miles Davis, and even recorded an album of Beatles covers in 2012.Despite facing health challenges, including a stroke in 2019 and a subsequent diagnosis of motor neurone disease, Flack continued to inspire through her music. In recognition of her enduring contributions, she was honored with a lifetime achievement award from the Grammys in 2020. Reflecting on this accolade, she expressed deep gratitude, noting that it validated her long-held aspiration to tell stories through her songs. Roberta Flack leaves behind a legacy that has touched the hearts of many.
