**BREAKING NEWS: Legendary Singer Roberta Flack Passes Away at 85**
The music world is in mourning following the announcement of the passing of legendary singer Roberta Flack. According to a statement from her representative, the Grammy-winning artist, best known for timeless hits like *”Killing Me Softly with His Song”* and *”The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,”* has died at the age of 85. The news has sparked an outpouring of grief and tributes from fans, fellow musicians, and industry leaders who have celebrated her extraordinary talent and enduring legacy.
### A Voice That Defined a Generation
Roberta Flack’s rich, soulful voice and unparalleled artistry made her one of the most influential singers of the 20th century. Born on February 10, 1937, in Black Mountain, North Carolina, Flack began playing piano at an early age and quickly demonstrated a prodigious talent for music. She earned a full scholarship to Howard University, where she studied classical piano, but her passion for blending genres—combining jazz, soul, R&B, and pop—would ultimately define her career.
Flack rose to fame in the early 1970s with a string of hits that showcased her ability to convey deep emotion through her music. Her rendition of *”The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,”* originally written by Ewan MacColl, became a global sensation after it was featured in the 1971 film *Play Misty for Me*. The song earned Flack her first Grammy Award for Record of the Year in 1973, making her the first solo artist to win the prestigious award two years in a row (she won again in 1974 for *”Killing Me Softly with His Song”*).
### A Trailblazer in Music
Roberta Flack’s career was marked by groundbreaking achievements and a commitment to artistic excellence. She became the first artist to win the Grammy Award for Record of the Year in consecutive years, a feat that remains unmatched. Her collaborations with artists like Donny Hathaway produced iconic duets such as *”Where Is the Love”* and *”The Closer I Get to You,”* which continue to resonate with audiences today.
Beyond her musical accomplishments, Flack was a trailblazer for Black artists and women in the industry. She broke barriers and paved the way for future generations of musicians, proving that talent and perseverance could overcome even the most entrenched obstacles.
### A Life of Passion and Purpose
In addition to her music career, Roberta Flack was a dedicated philanthropist and advocate for education and the arts. She founded the Roberta Flack School of Music in the Bronx, New York, to provide underprivileged children with access to music education. Her commitment to nurturing young talent and giving back to her community was a testament to her generous spirit and belief in the transformative power of music.
Flack’s later years were marked by health challenges, including a stroke in 2016 that affected her ability to speak and perform. Despite these setbacks, she remained a beloved figure in the music world, and her legacy continued to inspire countless artists and fans.
### Tributes Pour In
News of Roberta Flack’s passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the music industry and beyond. Fellow artists, celebrities, and fans have taken to social media to honor her memory and celebrate her contributions to music and culture.
– **Alicia Keys** wrote, “Roberta Flack’s voice was pure magic. She gave us so much beauty and soul. Rest in power, queen.”
– **Questlove** of The Roots shared, “Roberta Flack’s music was the soundtrack to so many lives. Her artistry was timeless, and her impact will never fade.”
– **Dionne Warwick** tweeted, “We’ve lost a true legend. Roberta Flack’s voice was a gift to the world. My heart goes out to her family and loved ones.”
### A Legacy That Will Endure
Roberta Flack’s music transcended genres and generations, leaving an indelible mark on the world. Her ability to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional level ensured that her songs would remain timeless. From the haunting beauty of *”The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face”* to the soulful storytelling of *”Killing Me Softly with His Song,”* Flack’s music will continue to inspire and move audiences for years to come.
As we mourn the loss of this extraordinary artist, we also celebrate her life and legacy. Roberta Flack’s voice, passion, and dedication to her craft will forever be remembered as a shining light in the world of music.
Rest in peace, Roberta Flack. Your music will live on in our hearts forever.
