Journey 
Roberta Flack, born February 10, 1937, had a voice so soulful and clean. She was not just the singer of iconic hits to be recreated like, “Killing Me Softly “(1973) and “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” (1969), but a pianist who understood music – a true artist who blended genres of R&B, Jazz, Soul, and Funk. Flack lived to be one of the greats, renowned for contributing to the music scene of the 1970s and 80s. She passed this Monday, February 25th, surrounded by family.
Her career began in her hometown of Arlington, VA, where she began playing the piano while singing in the church and the opera. Flack would go on to attend one of the best Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Howard University, at just 15 years old. She studied music education and became a teacher – a pure embodiment of beauty, talent, and brains. Flack was discovered once she began performing in different night club scenes and shortly after signed with Atlantic Records, one of America’s biggest record labels and home to some of the most talented musicians and artists.
She debuted her career with the album we all – and I’m sure all of our grandparents – love and cherish; “First Take” (1969). The album is where the classic tune, “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” came to life. Flack would go on to create and share some of the most influential and soulful pieces of art, inspiring the Fugees to recreate “Killing Me Softly With His Song” (1996).
Here are some of Flack’s greatest hits to always remember the life and talent she brought to the music industry and pay homage to her impact:
- “Feel Like Makin’ Love”
- “Maybe”
- “Tonight I Celebrate My Love”
- “Where Is the Love” with Donny Hathaway
- “You’ve Got a Friend”
It’s often believed that if you pass close to or after your birthday, it is a hopeful and symbolic way of completing a well-lived life. Our hearts go out to her family, friends, and all the people she graces with her influence.
By Journey Powell, Junior, Spelman College
Instagram: journeyaliah
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