Roberta Flack, the iconic Grammy-winning singer and pianist, passed away at the age of 88 on Monday. The news was confirmed by her publicist, Elaine Schock, who mentioned that Flack was surrounded by her family at home during her final moments. Flack, who rose to fame in the 1970s with hits like “Killing Me Softly with His Song” and “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” had announced in 2022 that she was battling ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, which tragically led to her inability to sing.
Flack’s journey to stardom was a remarkable one, with her breakthrough coming unexpectedly in her early 30s. A pivotal moment in her career was when acclaimed actor Clint Eastwood featured “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” in the soundtrack of his 1971 film “Play Misty for Me.” The song, set against a poignant love scene between Eastwood and Donna Mills, catapulted Flack to fame practically overnight. Her hauntingly beautiful rendition, characterized by her gentle soprano voice accompanied by delicate strings and piano, topped the Billboard pop chart in 1972 and earned her a Grammy for Record of the Year. The following year, she clinched yet another Grammy for Best Record with “Killing Me Softly,” a rare feat that solidified her status as a music legend.
Known for her unparalleled vocal talent and unique musical style, Flack was a classically trained pianist whose artistry resonated with fans and fellow musicians alike. Jazz musician Les McCann, who discovered her in the late 1960s, once remarked that her voice had the power to evoke a range of emotions with its depth and richness. While Flack could channel the soulful energy of Aretha Franklin, her preference leaned towards a more contemplative and melodic approach.
Throughout her career, Flack’s influence extended beyond the realm of music. She was admired and respected by many, including notable figures like Rev. Jesse Jackson, who saw her as a trailblazer in both the music industry and the social movements of her time. Flack’s unwavering support for causes she believed in was evident in her actions, such as visiting activist Angela Davis during her incarceration on murder and kidnapping charges, of which she was later acquitted. Flack’s commitment to social justice was further underscored by her participation in significant events like Jackie Robinson’s funeral and projects like Marlo Thomas’ groundbreaking feminist initiative, “Free to Be… You and Me.”
As the world mourns the loss of a music icon, Roberta Flack’s legacy as a transformative artist and a compassionate advocate for change will continue to resonate for generations to come. Her timeless melodies and heartfelt lyrics will forever remain a testament to the enduring power of music to uplift, inspire, and unite people from all walks of life.