Roberta Flack, the internationally acclaimed songstress whose soulful ballads defined a generation, passed away on February 24, 2025, at the age of 87. Flack, who had been battling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), leaves behind a legacy of musical brilliance and humanitarian dedication.
A Grammy-winning artist, Flack was renowned for her ability to weave intricate narratives through her music, traversing genres from pop and soul to folk and jazz. Her iconic hits, including “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” and “Killing Me Softly with His Song,” earned her the distinction of being the first solo artist to win the Grammy Award for Record of the Year in two consecutive years (1973 and 1974).
Flack’s musical journey began with classical piano training, earning her a scholarship to Howard University at the age of 15. Her discovery at the Washington, D.C. nightclub Mr. Henry’s by jazz musician Les McCann led to a recording contract with Atlantic Records, launching her career.
Beyond her musical achievements, Flack passionately advocated for social justice and education. Reverend Jesse Jackson described her as “socially relevant and politically unafraid.” She founded the Roberta Flack School of Music in the Bronx, providing free music education to underprivileged students, and The Roberta Flack Foundation supported animal welfare and music education.
In her later years, Flack received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2020 and actively raised funds for Feed The Children.org during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite retiring from touring in 2018, she continued to make special appearances.
Her music, described as “rich and deep,” will continue to resonate with generations to come, a testament to her unparalleled talent and enduring spirit.
