Roberta Flack, the renowned singer famous for her majestic voice and dramatic interpretations of songs like "Killing Me Softly With His Song" and "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face," has died at age 88, per the Associated Press. (Flack's birthday was just 14 days ago.) Her most successful era was during the 1970s. The announcement was made by Flack's publicist, Elaine Schock. Three years ago, the singer went public with the fact that she had ALS, or Lou Gehrig's disease, and was not able to sing any longer.
The Use Of Her Song, 'The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,' In A Clint Eastwood Film Established Roberta Flack As A Bona Fide Star
Cinema and television critic Rochard Roeper expressed his sentiments well on
It was actually the use of this song in Eastwood's classic 1971 movie that helped propel Flack to stardom. The use of the beautifully passionate music during an intensely romantic scene touched fans deeply. Per the outlet, "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" took home a Record of the Year Grammy award. The very next year, Flack won the same accolade, this time for "Killing Me Softly With His Song." No previous vocalist ever earned the award in two consecutive years.
Flack said of Eastwood per the outlet seven years ago, "The record label wanted to have it re-recorded with a faster tempo, but he said he wanted it exactly as it was. With the song as a theme song for his movie, it gained a lot of popularity and then took off."
Flack Was Also A Noted Social Activist
She was friendly with Angela Davis and Rev. Jesse Jackson. Flack sang at the funeral of legendary baseball great Jackie Robinson, who died in 1972. He courageously led the way in racially integrating the ranks of major league baseball.
Music And Other Musicians Were Pivotal Forces In Her Life
Five years ago, according to the AP via songwriteruniverse.com, Flack said, "I love that connection to other artists because we understand music, we live music, it's our language. Through music we understand what we are thinking and feeling. No matter what challenge life presents, I am at home with my piano, on a stage, with my band, in the studio, listening to music. I can find my way when I hear music."
Other artists were grateful to Flack. Luther Vandross posted on Instagram, "When I used to sing background for Roberta Flack, she more than anybody encouraged me to make my own record and have my own career, and I owe her a lot."
ASCAP Posted A Moving Tribute To Flack On Instagram
The American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP) posted on Instagram, "We are deeply saddened by the passing of legendary vocalist, songwriter and ASCAP member, Roberta Flack. Her timeless recordings of songs like 'Killing Me Softly with His Song,' 'The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face' and 'Feel Like Makin' Love' have touched the hearts of millions, and her sophisticated artistry has left an indelible mark on music and culture. Rest in peace, Roberta. Your legacy will live on through the beauty of your music."
