The music world is mourning the loss of a true legend. Roberta Flack, the iconic singer behind hits like “Killing Me Softly With His Song” and “The First Time I Ever Saw Your Face,” has passed away at the age of 88.
According to her rep, Flack died peacefully surrounded by her family on February 24, 2025.
A Life of Music and Breaking Boundaries
Flack’s life was a testament to her passion for music and her determination to succeed.
Born in North Carolina, she began playing classical piano at a young age and later earned a scholarship to Howard University in Washington, D.C. It was there that her singing and piano talents were discovered, and she was eventually signed to Atlantic Records Group.
With a career spanning decades, Flack released 15 albums and won five Grammy Awards out of 14 nominations.
Overcoming Health Challenges
In recent years, Flack had been battling several health challenges, including ALS, which she publicly revealed in 2022.
Despite her health issues, Flack remained committed to her music and creative pursuits. Her manager, Suzanne Koga, said at the time, “It will take a lot more than ALS to silence this icon.”
Flack’s foundation and other initiatives allowed her to stay active in the music industry, even as her health declined.
A Legacy of Timeless Music
Flack’s music has stood the test of time, with classics like “Killing Me Softly With His Song” and “Feel Like Makin’ Love” remaining popular to this day. She was the first artist to win back-to-back Grammy Awards for Record of the Year in 1973 and 1974.
Flack’s music was not only a reflection of her soulful voice but also a testament to her dedication to her craft.
As she once told TIME, “I’m a serious artist. I feel a kinship with people like Arthur Rubinstein and Glenn Gould. If I can’t play Bartok when I want to play.”
A Legacy of Advocacy and Inspiration
Flack’s music was not just about soothing melodies and catchy rhythms; it was also about conveying deep and personal messages.
As she told NPR in 2020, “Every single song I’ve recorded expressed something deep and personal to me.” Flack was also a proud advocate for civil rights and social justice, using her music as a platform to raise awareness and inspire change.
Remembering a Music Icon
As the music world mourns the loss of Roberta Flack, we remember her as a true legend and a trailblazer in the music industry.
Her legacy will continue to inspire and influence generations of musicians and fans to come. Share your thoughts and memories of Roberta Flack in the comments below.