The world is mourning the loss of Roberta Flack, the celebrated singer, songwriter, and pianist, who passed away on the morning of February 24, 2025.
A representative for the Grammy-winning artist confirmed her passing, stating:
“We are heartbroken that the glorious Roberta Flack passed away this morning, February 24, 2025.
“She died peacefully surrounded by her family. Roberta broke boundaries and records. She was also a proud educator.”
While the exact cause of her death has not been disclosed, it comes after her prolonged battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), commonly known as motor neuron disease.
A Life Marked by Musical Brilliance
Roberta Flack was known for her soul-stirring voice, effortless piano skills, and songs that transcended generations. Her career, which spanned over five decades, was defined by her ability to weave jazz, soul, R&B, and folk music into timeless classics.
She first gained recognition in 1969 with her debut album First Take, which featured the song “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face”—a track that would later become a chart-topping hit after being featured in Clint Eastwood’s 1971 film Play Misty for Me.
Flack’s unique style, filled with deep emotion and poetic storytelling, set her apart from her contemporaries. Her most memorable songs, such as “Killing Me Softly with His Song”, and “Feel Like Makin’ Love”, remain some of the most revered in music history.
Battling ALS and Her Final Years
In November 2022, it was revealed that Flack had been diagnosed with ALS, a degenerative neurological disorder that severely impacts motor functions, including the ability to speak and sing.
Her longtime manager, Suzanne Koga, issued a statement at the time, acknowledging the challenges the disease presented but emphasizing Flack’s enduring spirit:
“ALS has made it impossible to sing and not easy to speak. But it will take a lot more than ALS to silence this icon! But Roberta plans to stay active in her musical and creative pursuits.”
Despite the diagnosis, she remained active in music and storytelling, inspiring fans through her work. Just days before the announcement of her illness, a documentary titled Roberta, chronicling her journey in the music industry, premiered at the DOC NYC Film Festival.
A Lasting Legacy
Roberta Flack’s influence extended far beyond her own music. She was a mentor to many, a champion for music education, and an artist who consistently defied expectations. Her work inspired multiple generations of musicians, including Lauryn Hill, whose reinterpretation of “Killing Me Softly with His Song” became a worldwide hit in the late 1990s.
Even as her health declined, Flack’s dedication to music remained unwavering. She was known for her philanthropic efforts, including initiatives promoting music education in underprivileged communities.
Her timeless songs continue to be cherished by fans worldwide, ensuring that her voice and message will resonate for years to come.
Roberta Flack’s Most Iconic Songs
Throughout her illustrious career, Flack gifted the world with numerous unforgettable tracks. Some of her most iconic songs include:
- “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” (1972) – A song that won Record of the Year at the Grammys
- “Killing Me Softly with His Song” (1973) – One of her most beloved hits, later covered by The Fugees
- “Feel Like Makin’ Love” (1974) – A sultry, jazz-infused track that topped the Billboard Hot 100
- “Where Is the Love” (1972) – A duet with Donny Hathaway, which became a defining song in R&B
- “The Closer I Get to You” (1978) – Another collaboration with Hathaway, filled with warmth and romance
- “Tonight, I Celebrate My Love” (1983) – A touching duet with Peabo Bryson
- “Set the Night to Music” (1991) – A powerful ballad featuring Maxi Priest
Roberta Flack has passed away at the age of 88 🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/RH6IFgWhAs
— 🎸 Rock History 🎸 (@historyrock_) February 24, 2025
A Farewell to a Music Legend
With her passing, the world has lost a true musical icon, but Roberta Flack’s legacy remains indelible. Her songs, rich in meaning and emotion, will continue to move audiences across generations. While her voice may have been silenced by illness, the music she left behind ensures that she will never truly be forgotten.
