 |
| Image:NBCnews |
Legendary soul singer Roberta Flack, whose iconic voice defined the 1970s with timeless hits like Killing Me Softly With His Song, passed away on Monday at the age of 88. Her publicist confirmed her death but did not disclose the cause. Flack had been battling ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) since 2022, which tragically robbed her of her ability to sing in her final years. She died peacefully, surrounded by her family.
Born on February 10, 1937, in Black Mountain, North Carolina, Flack grew up in Arlington, Virginia, where her mother, a church organist, nurtured her early love for music. A child prodigy, she began playing the piano at nine and earned a full music scholarship to Howard University, graduating at just 19. Flack initially taught music in Washington, D.C., before transitioning to performing in clubs, where her unique blend of classical training and soulful artistry began to shine.
Flack’s music, often described as “scientific soul,” combined precision with emotional depth, helping to shape the “quiet storm” radio format that popularized smooth, sensual R&B. Her hits, including The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face and Feel Like Makin’ Love, cemented her status as one of the most influential voices of her era.
Despite comparisons to legends like Nina Simone and Dionne Warwick, Flack carved out her own distinct style. “If everybody said I sounded like one person, I’d worry,” she once told The New York Times. “But when they say I sound like them all, I know I’ve got my own style.”
Tributes poured in following her passing, with Jennifer Hudson calling her “one of the great soul singers of all time” and Questlove thanking her for her contributions to music. Roberta Flack’s legacy as a trailblazer in soul and R&B will continue to inspire generations, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music. Rest in melody, Roberta Flack.
#Robertaflack
#Music
No comments:
Post a Comment