Musician Roberta Flack in a press room at the 52nd Annual GRAMMY Awards. (Photo by Michael Tran/FilmMagic)
(EPICSTORIAN) — Roberta Flack, the legendary singer behind timeless hits like Killing Me Softly With His Song and The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face, has died at the age of 88.
Her publicist confirmed her passing, marking the end of a career that reshaped soul and R&B music.
Flack, a classically trained pianist turned vocal powerhouse, rose to prominence in the 1970s with a distinctive style that blended jazz, soul, and folk.
Roberta Flack’s Breakthrough Album
Her breakthrough came in 1969 when she released First Take, an album that caught the attention of music executives and catapulted her into stardom.
It was her emotive delivery and ability to convey deep emotion that made her songs resonate across generations.
Her biggest hit, Killing Me Softly With His Song, became an anthem, earning her a Grammy for Record of the Year in 1974.
The song’s haunting melody and heartfelt lyrics solidified her place among music’s greats. Flack was also the first artist to win back-to-back Grammy Awards for Record of the Year, a feat unmatched at the time.
Over the decades, Flack continued to inspire with her music, collaborating with artists like Donny Hathaway and Peabo Bryson.
Despite health challenges in recent years, she remained an influential figure in the industry, advocating for music education and artistic expression.
“Her voice was unlike any other—pure, powerful, and filled with soul,” said a representative from her team. “She touched millions with her music and left an indelible mark on the world.”
The news of her passing has drawn tributes from musicians and fans alike, remembering her legacy as an artist who transformed the sound of contemporary soul.
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Flack’s family has requested privacy as they mourn her loss, with details of a memorial service expected to be announced later.
