Legendary singer Roberta Flack passed away peacefully on February 24, 2025, at the age of 88, surrounded by family. Known for her soul-stirring vocals and groundbreaking musical achievements, Flack left an indelible mark on the music industry.

Born in North Carolina in 1937, Flack's musical journey began early as the daughter of a church organist. Her exceptional talent earned her a Howard University scholarship at just 15 years old. Jazz musician Les McCann discovered her performing at Washington's Mr. Henry's nightclub, leading to her signing with Atlantic Records.

Her breakthrough came with "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face," which topped the Billboard Hot 100 in 1972 and earned two Grammy Awards. Other iconic hits followed, including "Killing Me Softly With His Song" and "Feel Like Makin' Love," establishing her as a defining voice of the 1970s.

Flack's influence extended beyond her era, with the Fugees' 1996 cover of "Killing Me Softly" introducing her music to a new generation. Her achievements include a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and performing for Nelson Mandela in South Africa.

Committed to music education, she founded the Roberta Flack School of Music in the Bronx, providing free music education to underprivileged students. Despite health challenges, including a 2016 stroke and a 2022 ALS diagnosis that ended her singing career, Flack remained active in music until her later years.

Fellow artists, including Carole King and Jennifer Hudson, paid tribute to Flack's legacy, celebrating her contribution to soul music and her enduring influence on generations of musicians.

[Photo Credit: Roberta Flack by annulla / CC by 2.0]

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