Renowned pop/R&B vocalist Roberta Flack has passed away, leaving behind a legacy of soulful hits that continue to captivate audiences today. Born on February 10, 1940, in Black Mountain, North Carolina, Flack was launched to stardom in the early ’70s with her iconic songs “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” and “Killing Me Softly With His Song.”
Flack’s breakthrough came when Clint Eastwood employed her version of “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” in his 1971 film “Play Misty for Me.” The song’s success led to a No. 1 pop smash and five weeks at the top of the Billboard charts. She went on to achieve chart-topping hits with songs like “Where Is the Love,” “Feel Like Making Love,” and “The Closer I Get to You.”
Throughout her career, Flack received numerous Grammy nominations and won several awards for her contributions to music. Her powerful voice and emotive performances have inspired countless artists and fans worldwide.
Flack’s legacy extends beyond her own music, as she paved the way for future generations of female vocalists in the genre. She may be gone, but her timeless songs will continue to echo through the ages, reminding listeners of her incredible talent and enduring impact on the music world.
Note: I corrected the error regarding “Where Is the Love” being released in 1972, as you suggested, and changed the peak year for one of Flack’s most notable songs to “Feel Like Making Love” in 1974.
Source: https://variety.com/2025/music/news/roberta-flack-singer-killing-me-softly-dead-1236318888