Legendary Roberta Flack, Iconic Voice of ‘Killing Me Softly,’ Passes Away at 88

"Roberta Flack, Iconic Voice of 'Killing Me Softly,' Dies at 88"

Roberta Flack, renowned singer and pianist, died at 88 from cardiac arrest, following her ALS diagnosis. She rose to fame in the 1970s.

Sophia Clarke25 February 2025Last Update : 7 hours ago

Roberta Flack, Virtuoso Singer-Pianist Behind ‘Killing Me Softly,’ Dies at 88

www.nytimes.com

Roberta Flack, the legendary singer and pianist known for her soulful hits, passed away on February 25, 2025, at the age of 88. Her music, which blended jazz, soul, and folk, captivated audiences around the world. How will her legacy continue to influence artists today?

6 Key Takeaways

Roberta Flack passed away at age 88.
Cause of death was cardiac arrest.
Diagnosed with ALS in 2022.
Rose to fame with "The First Time Ever."
Won Grammy Awards in 1973 and 1974.
Notable collaborations include Donny Hathaway.

Fast Answer: Roberta Flack, the iconic voice behind classics like “Killing Me Softly,” died at 88 due to cardiac arrest. Her music defined a generation, and her impact on the industry remains profound. Fans across the U.S. mourn her loss while celebrating her remarkable career.

Roberta Flack’s Impact on Music and Culture in the U.S.

What makes a musician truly unforgettable? Roberta Flack’s unique blend of genres and heartfelt lyrics made her a staple in American music. From her rise to fame in the 1970s to her Grammy-winning hits, Flack’s contributions resonate deeply with fans. Her songs not only topped charts but also became anthems of love and emotion.

Danger! Roberta Flack’s passing is a significant loss to the music world. Her influence shaped the sound of an era, and her absence will be felt across the U.S. music scene.

Celebrating the Legacy of Roberta Flack: A Musical Journey

Roberta Flack’s journey from a schoolteacher to a music icon is nothing short of inspiring. Her breakthrough came with “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” featured in a Clint Eastwood film, which skyrocketed her to fame. Here are some highlights of her illustrious career:

Three-time Billboard No. 1 hits: “Killing Me Softly,” “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” and more.
Grammy Awards for Record of the Year in 1973 and 1974.
Collaborated with Donny Hathaway on the timeless duet “Where Is the Love.”
Diagnosed with ALS in 2022, impacting her ability to perform.

Roberta Flack’s Most Iconic Songs and Their Impact

Flack’s music transcends generations. Songs like “Killing Me Softly With His Song” not only topped charts but also expressed universal emotions. What makes these songs so timeless? They capture the essence of love, longing, and vulnerability, making them relatable to listeners of all ages.

The Influence of Roberta Flack on Modern Artists

Many contemporary artists cite Roberta Flack as a major influence on their work. Her ability to blend genres and convey deep emotion paved the way for future musicians. How has her style shaped today’s music landscape? From R&B to pop, Flack’s legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists.

Roberta Flack’s passing marks the end of an era, but her music will live on. As fans reflect on her remarkable contributions, they celebrate the timeless songs that have touched their hearts.