The music world is mourning the loss of Roberta Flack, the iconic voice behind Killing Me Softly with His Song.
The Grammy-winning artist passed away peacefully at the age of 88 on February 24, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones. Her publicist confirmed the news, highlighting her impact not just as a singer but also as a dedicated educator.
A trailblazing career that defined an era
Born in North Carolina, Flack‘s musical journey began early, showcasing exceptional talent as a classically trained pianist.
At just 15, she earned a full scholarship to Howard University, marking the start of an extraordinary career. She gained prominence in the early 1970s when her rendition of The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face was featured in Clint Eastwood’s film Play Misty for Me. The song soared to No. 1 on the charts and earned her a Grammy.
Flack continued breaking records, winning back-to-back Grammys for “Record of the Year” with Killing Me Softly with His Song in 1974, a rare feat at the time. Her collaborations with Donny Hathaway on hits like Where Is the Love and The Closer I Get to You further solidified her status as an R&B and soul icon.
In 2022, Flack revealed her ALS diagnosis, which took away her ability to sing. Despite this, her music remained a source of comfort for millions. Following the news of her passing, tributes poured in from fans and celebrities.
Garnett pays tribute
NBA star Kevin Garnett honored her memory with a heartfelt Instagram tribute.
“Respect Queen,” Garnett wrote on Instagram.
Fellow artists, including Jennifer Hudson and Kelly Rowland, praised her influence, with Hudson calling her “one of the greatest soul singers of all time.” Questlove simply wrote, “Rest in Melody,” capturing the sentiments of many.
Fans around the world continue to celebrate Flack’s contributions to music, sharing memories and revisiting her timeless hits. One admirer summed it up best: “One of the most beautiful voices in the history of music. RIP Roberta.” Though she may be gone, her voice will forever live on, resonating through the generations.
