Roberta Flack was an American singer and pianist known for her soulful, genre-blending ballads. Her music spanned R&B, jazz, folk, and pop, and she was considered a major figure in the development of the “quiet storm” format, which emphasized smooth, romantic soul music.
Some of her most famous songs include:
- “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” (1969), a haunting ballad that topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart and won her a Grammy Award for Record of the Year.
- “Killing Me Softly with His Song” (1973), a soft rock classic that also reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned her another Grammy Award for Record of the Year.
- “Feel Like Makin’ Love” (1974), a sensual R&B track that showcased her vocal range and emotional delivery.
Flack was also known for her collaborations with other artists, such as Donny Hathaway, with whom she recorded several duets, including “Where Is the Love” and “The Closer I Get to You.”
She was a recipient of numerous awards and honors throughout her career, including four Grammy Awards, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
Flack retired from performing in 2018 due to health issues, but her music continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by generations of fans.