The world has lost a legendary talent. Roberta Flack, the iconic R&B, soul, and jazz singer, passed away at the age of 88, leaving an undeniable void in the music industry. With unforgettable hits like “Killing Me Softly with His Song” and “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face”, her voice shaped the sound of an entire generation.
But beyond her remarkable music career, Flack’s life was marked by more than just her powerful voice. Born in North Carolina and raised in Arlington, Virginia, Flack began her musical journey as a classical pianist and later taught music before breaking into the world of jazz. It was at a local jazz club that she was discovered by musician Les McCann, which led to her rise in the music scene.
Roberta’s Breakthrough and Career Highlights
Roberta’s breakthrough moment came when her rendition of “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” was featured in Clint Eastwood’s 1971 film Play Misty for Me. The song, filled with raw emotion, won a Grammy Award for Record of the Year in 1973 and quickly became a worldwide sensation. Flack went on to earn another Grammy the same year for her duet with Donny Hathaway on “Where Is the Love”, and in 1974, she won a Grammy for her iconic performance of “Killing Me Softly with His Song”.
Flack’s career was filled with iconic moments. She was the first artist in Grammy history to win Record of the Year in consecutive years, a remarkable achievement that solidified her as one of the greatest voices of her time. She later collaborated with music legends such as Miles Davis and recorded albums that explored various genres, including jazz and soul.
A Passionate Advocate for Social Justice
But Flack was much more than a singer. She was deeply involved in social and civil rights movements, befriending prominent activists like Reverend Jesse Jackson and Angela Davis. She wasn’t just using her platform to entertain but also to challenge the status quo. In fact, in 1972, she performed at the funeral of baseball legend Jackie Robinson, marking a significant moment in her life.
Personal Life
While Flack’s career soared, her personal life remained largely private. She married jazz musician Steve Novosel in 1966, but the couple divorced in 1972. Throughout her life, Flack remained dedicated to her music and activism, never allowing the spotlight to overshadow her true passion for social causes.
Flack’s Final Years and Legacy
In recent years, Flack faced significant health challenges. In 2022, she was diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease), which gradually took away her ability to sing. Despite her health struggles, Flack remained involved in the music world. In 2020, she received the Lifetime Achievement Grammy, honoring her extraordinary contribution to music.
Roberta Flack’s voice may have been silenced, but her legacy will continue to resonate with music lovers around the world. She will forever be remembered not only for her unparalleled talent but also for the way she used her platform to break barriers and make a difference in the world.
Learn more about Roberta Flack’s unforgettable contributions to music and culture:
- Roberta Flack – Wikipedia
- Roberta Flack’s Grammy Wins
- Watch Roberta Flack Perform “Killing Me Softly” Live
Credit: "Roberta Flack - Legendary Soulful Singer - Boston, Mass. - Aug. 28, 2013" by Michael Borkson, licensed under CC-BY-SA 2.0 Generic. Source: Flickr.
