Roberta Flack, Grammy-Winning Icon, Passes Away at 88
Legendary singer Roberta Flack, best known for her timeless hit “Killing Me Softly With His Song”, has passed away at the age of 88. Her managers, Suzanne Koga and Mikel Gilmore, confirmed the heartbreaking news in a press release.
“We are heartbroken that the glorious Roberta Flack passed away this morning, February 24, 2025,” the statement read. “She died peacefully, surrounded by her family. Roberta broke boundaries and records. She was also a proud educator.”
In November 2022, Flack’s representatives revealed that she had been diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. This progressive neurodegenerative illness affects motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord, making it difficult to move, speak, or sing. Koga told NBC News that the disease had made it impossible for Flack to perform. Prior to her ALS diagnosis, she suffered a stroke in 2016, which led her to retire from live performances in 2018.
A Trailblazing Career
Born in Black Mountain, North Carolina, Flack rose to fame with her distinctive voice and emotionally resonant songs. She made history as the first artist to win the Grammy Award for Record of the Year in consecutive years, earning the prestigious honor for “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” in 1973 and “Killing Me Softly With His Song” in 1974.
Beyond her chart-topping hits, Flack was celebrated for her deep musical artistry, blending jazz, R&B, and soul with a rare grace. She remained dedicated to her craft and was known for her profound connection with her audience.
In her 2022 documentary, Roberta, she reflected on her career and what music meant to her:
“If I have to use one phrase to describe how I feel about the whole experience, it would simply be that love is a song and an honest giving of feelings and emotions. As a performer, if you can connect to that thought, then whatever the song is, it’s a success. It’s not like I’m trying to sound like somebody else or be somebody else. I’m happy to be Roberta Flack. I’m happy to sound like I do. So that feels good. I mean, I’m very satisfied with that.”
Roberta Flack’s impact on the world of music is immeasurable, and her legacy will continue to inspire generations of artists and fans alike.
VIBE sends heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and all who loved her.
