On February 24, 2025, Roberta Flack, the masterful soul singer, pianist and songwriter, passed away at the age of 87. Her death leaves a deep hole in the music world, as Flack was not only an outstanding artist, but also an inspirational voice for generations. With her unmistakable voice and haunting style, she shaped the music of the 1970s and beyond.
Roberta Cleopatra Flack was born on February 10, 1937 in Black Mountain, North Carolina. She showed a passion for music from an early age, which eventually led her to Howard University in Washington, D.C., where she studied jazz and classical piano music. Her artistic potential did not go undiscovered; while still a student, she performed in various jazz clubs, where she made her first impression.
In 1969, Flack released her debut album “First Take”, which caused a sensation on the music scene. The single “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” was the breakthrough that made her an international star in 1972. The song, originally written by Ewan MacColl in 1957, became a classic and won several Grammy Awards. Roberta Flack was the first African-American to win a Grammy for “Record of the Year”.
In the following years, Flack enjoyed great success with hits such as “Killing Me Softly with His Song” (1973) and “Feel Like Makin’ Love” (1975). Killing Me Softly with His Song” in particular remained a milestone in pop and soul music for a long time and was covered by many artists. Flack’s captivating babyface qualities and her sensitive piano playing made her an exceptional artist.
During her career, Flack collaborated with several legendary artists, including Donny Hathaway, with whom she recorded the unforgettable ballad “Where Is the Love” (1972). This collaboration cemented her status as a preeminent artist in the realm of soul and R&B. Despite the challenges that the music industry brought, Flack remained a steady and faithful voice of soul music.
In addition to her music career, Flack was also active in the field of education. She was involved in charitable projects and campaigned for the rights of children and minorities. This was reflected in her music and her public appearances, which often addressed political and social issues.
Roberta Flack’s influence on the music industry and her immortal melodies will live on after her death. She was not only an artist who shaped the sound of an era, but also a mentor to many aspiring musicians. Her musical legacy, characterized by emotional depth and lyrical grace, will continue to inspire generations of artists.
In a world where musical diversity is constantly growing, Roberta Flack will be remembered as a pioneer of soul. Her ability to convey emotion through music and her powerful yet sensitive voice made her unique. The loss of this extraordinary artist is sorely felt, but her influence and immortal works will remain with us forever.
Roberta Flack is not only an icon of music history, but also a symbol of the power of music to build bridges between cultures and generations. Her legacy will endure for years to come as we listen to her music and uphold the values she stood for.
