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Grammy award-winning singer Roberta Flack, best known for crooning hits like, “Killing Me Softly,” passed away on Monday morning at the age of 88, according to a statement from her publicist.
“We are heartbroken that the glorious Roberta Flack passed away this morning February 24, 2025,” read a press release announcing the news. “She died peacefully surrounded by her family. Roberta broke boundaries and records. She was also a proud educator.”
The daughter of a church organist, Roberta Flack received classical music training throughout her childhood, starting piano lessons at age 9. By 15, she’d earned a scholarship to Howard University. After graduating in 1958 the R&B singer performed gigs in clubs throughout Washington before getting her big break with Atlantic Records.
Over the course of her career, she notched a total of 18 Hot 100 hits. Four of her albums reached the top three on the Billboard 200 as well.
Roberta Flack was also nominated for 14 Grammys and won five, including a lifetime achievement award. She was the first artist to win a Grammy for record of the year two times in a row — for “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” in 1973 and “Killing Me Softly with His Song” in 1974.
Flack’s Impact on Music Felt As Celebrities Honor Her Legacy
Roberta Flock’s legacy has persisted through the decades. Her 1973 hit single “Killing Me Softly” regained mainstream attention when Lauryn Hill and the Fugees included a cover of the song on their second album, The Score.
Questlove, drummer for The Roots, musical director for “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” and a filmmaker, paid tribute to Flack.
“Thank You Roberta Flack,” he captioned a throwback photo of the late artist. “Rest In Melody.”
Tyler, the Creator shared a simple tribute on X, writing, “SAFE TRAVELS ROBERTA FLACK.”
