Roberta Flack, the iconic singer renowned for her emotive voice and timeless ballads, passed away on February 24, 2025, at the age of 88. Her death was confirmed by her manager, Suzanne Koga, who stated that Flack died from cardiac arrest on her way to a hospital in Manhattan. Flack’s passing marks the end of an era, but her musical legacy continues to inspire and influence artists and fans worldwide.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Born on February 10, 1937, in Black Mountain, North Carolina, Roberta Cleopatra Flack was immersed in music from a young age. Her parents, both pianists, nurtured her burgeoning talent. At just nine years old, Flack began taking piano lessons, displaying a prodigious aptitude that would define her future career. Her exceptional skills earned her a full scholarship to Howard University at the age of 15, making her one of the youngest students ever admitted to the institution. Initially aspiring to be a classical pianist, Flack’s exposure to various musical genres during her time at Howard expanded her artistic horizons.
Rise to Stardom
After graduating, Flack took on teaching positions in North Carolina and later in Washington, D.C. During this period, she performed at local nightclubs, captivating audiences with her soulful renditions. Her big break came when jazz pianist Les McCann discovered her at a Washington, D.C. nightclub, leading to a recording contract with Atlantic Records in 1968. Her debut album, “First Take,” released in 1969, featured the song “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face.” This track gained significant attention when Clint Eastwood featured it in his 1971 film “Play Misty for Me,” propelling Flack into the national spotlight. The song topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart for six consecutive weeks in 1972 and earned her a Grammy Award for Record of the Year in 1973.
Chart-Topping Success and Collaborations
Flack’s success continued with the release of “Killing Me Softly with His Song” in 1973, which also reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and garnered her a second consecutive Grammy Award for Record of the Year. This achievement made her the first artist to win the award in two consecutive years, a testament to her unparalleled talent. Throughout the 1970s, Flack delivered a series of hits, including “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” which also reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1974. Her collaborations with fellow musician Donny Hathaway produced memorable duets such as “Where Is the Love” and “The Closer I Get to You,” both of which received critical acclaim and commercial success.
Personal Life and Later Years
Flack was married to bassist Steve Novosel from 1966 until their divorce in 1972. She did not have any children but was a significant figure in the lives of her family members, including her godson, musician Bernard Wright, who tragically passed away in 2022. In 2018, Flack experienced a stroke while performing at the Apollo Theater, leading to a decline in her health. In 2022, she was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), which forced her to retire from performing. Despite these challenges, Flack remained active in music education and philanthropy, founding the Roberta Flack School of Music at the Hyde Leadership Charter School in the Bronx, providing free music education to underprivileged students.
Financial Legacy
Over her illustrious career, Roberta Flack amassed a net worth estimated at $20 million. This wealth was accumulated through her extensive discography, successful tours, and royalties from her timeless classics. Her financial success reflects not only her talent but also her enduring appeal across generations.
Legacy and Tributes
Roberta Flack’s influence on music is immeasurable. Her unique blend of soul, jazz, and folk elements created a sound that resonated with a wide audience. She broke barriers as an African American woman in the music industry, earning multiple Grammy Awards and leaving an indelible mark on the world of music. Her songs continue to be celebrated and covered by artists worldwide, ensuring that her legacy endures.
In the wake of her passing, numerous artists and fans have paid tribute to Flack’s contributions to music. Her soulful voice and heartfelt performances have left an enduring impact, making her a beloved figure in the annals of music history.
