New York, February 24, 2025 – Roberta Flack, the iconic singer known for her soulful renditions of classics such as “Killing Me Softly With His Song,” has died at the age of 88. Flack passed away Monday at her home, surrounded by family, according to a statement from her publicist.
Flack, whose career spanned decades, was celebrated for her smooth, emotive voice and her ability to interpret both romantic ballads and socially conscious songs. A recipient of 14 Grammy nominations and five wins—including a lifetime achievement award in 2020 - Flack left an indelible mark on the music industry. Her recordings, such as the chart-topping “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” and her collaborations with Donny Hathaway, cemented her status as one of the defining voices of her generation.
Her death follows several years of declining health. In late 2022, Flack publicly revealed she had been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurological disorder that eventually forced her to retire from singing. Despite her health challenges, Flack’s influence on music and culture remained strong, inspiring younger artists like Lauryn Hill, the Fugees, Lizzo, Lady Gaga, and Ariana Grande.
Born in Black Mountain, North Carolina, and raised in Arlington, Virginia, Flack received classical music training from an early age. After earning a scholarship to Howard University, where she graduated with a degree in music education, she initially pursued classical music before embracing pop and soul - a transition that would define her storied career. Over the years, Flack not only delivered unforgettable performances but also used her platform to address issues such as racial injustice and social inequality, earning praise for being “socially relevant and politically unafraid.”
Tributes have poured in from across the music world. Questlove, drummer for The Roots and musical director for “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon,” paid tribute with a throwback photo captioned “Thank You Roberta Flack. Rest In Melody.”
Roberta Flack’s enduring legacy as a trailblazer and a masterful interpreter of music will continue to resonate with fans and artists alike. Her contributions to music and culture will be remembered for generations to come.
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