The music world has lost one of its most distinctive voices with the passing of the legendary Roberta Flack, the Grammy-winning US singer who left us at the age of 88. Her publicist confirmed the sad news, marking the end of a years-long battle with health issues that had deeply affected her life and career.
Roberta Flack, whose soulful renditions of songs like The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face and Killing Me Softly With His Song have become timeless classics, was a true pioneer in the music industry. Her voice, imbued with a profound emotional depth, has resonated with listeners for decades, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of many.
In 2022, it was revealed that Flack had been diagnosed with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. This progressive neurological condition had, heartbreakingly, rendered it ‘impossible’ for her to continue singing, as stated by a representative. ALS is known for its cruel impact on the motor neurones that control voluntary muscles, often leading to severe physical disability.
‘We are heartbroken that the glorious Roberta Flack passed away this morning, February 24, 2025,’ publicist Elaine Schock told the PA news agency. ‘She died peacefully surrounded by her family.’
Roberta Flack’s journey began on February 10, 1937, in North Carolina. She grew up in Virginia, where she started classical piano lessons at the tender age of nine. Her prodigious talent was recognised early on, and at just 15 years old, she was awarded a full scholarship to Howard University in Washington DC. There, she not only excelled academically but also served as the assistant conductor of the university choir.
Her life took a turn when she returned to North Carolina following her father’s death in 1959. However, she soon returned to the capital to teach at schools. In the early 1960s, Flack began accompanying opera singers at the Tivoli opera restaurant in Georgetown. Her evenings were spent playing at various clubs in the DC area before she took a residency at Mr Henry’s, a move that would eventually lead to her discovery and recording career.
It wasn’t until the age of 32 that Flack began her recording career, after decades of classical study and teaching music. Her big break came when Clint Eastwood chose her song The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face as the soundtrack for a love scene in his movie Play Misty For Me. The song not only catapulted her to stardom but also won her the Grammy for Record of the Year in 1973. The following year, her rendition of Killing Me Softly With His Song won Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.
In recognition of her incredible contributions to music, the Recording Academy honoured Roberta Flack with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2020. Her influence on the music industry and her role as a proud educator have broken boundaries and set records.
Roberta Flack’s voice was more than just music—it was a gift that touched hearts across generations. Though she is no longer with us, her songs will continue to inspire and move us for years to come.
What are your favourite memories of Roberta Flack’s music? Is there a particular song of hers that holds special meaning for you? Share your thoughts and tributes in the comments below—we’d love to hear how her music has been a part of your life.
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