‘One of the great soul singers of all time’ Roberta Flack dies, age 88

Grammy-winning US singer Roberta Flack, known for the hit song Killing Me Softly With His Song, has sadly passed away at the age of 88.

Flack’s publicist Elaine Schock confirmed her passing with the PA news agency, revealing that she died peacefully with loved ones by her side.

“We are heartbroken that the glorious Roberta Flack passed away this morning, February 24 2025,”  Schock said.

“She died peacefully surrounded by her family.

“Roberta broke boundaries and records. She was also a proud educator.”

While no cause of death was provided, in 2022 it was announced the renowned musician had ALS, a progressive neurological condition that had made it “impossible” for her to sing, according to a representative.

As news of her passing broke, the music industry joined fans to offer their condolences while reflecting on her remarkable legacy.

Roberta Flack was a neighbor of Dad’s in New York City, and a dear friend of our family. Very sad to hear of her passing. 🙏🏼

Deepest condolences to all who loved her. ❤️💐

📷: Pictorial Press, Ltd. pic.twitter.com/F5qxaQcPWP

— Julian Lennon (@JulianLennon) February 24, 2025

Rest in peace, Roberta… 🖤

Today, the legendary Roberta Flack passed away at age 88…

In honor of her legacy, here’s a throwback to a fantastic performance of “Killing Me Softly with His Song” pic.twitter.com/BOgvbLdIp1

— Melodies & Masterpieces (@SVG__Collection) February 24, 2025

Rest in peace to Roberta Flack. Her cover of “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” is one of the most beautiful songs in pop history. Clint Eastwood played the entire 5 minutes+ in an extraordinarily touching scene in “Play Misty For Me.” pic.twitter.com/JDKgQsBAqK

— Richard Roeper (@RichardERoeper) February 24, 2025

So sad to hear of Roberta Flack’s passing. One of the great soul singers of all time. Rest well, Ms. Flack. Your legacy lives on!!! pic.twitter.com/0llBa6VXID

— Jennifer Hudson (@IAMJHUD) February 24, 2025

How sad that Roberta Flack has passed away at the age of 88. She gave us so many beautiful songs, I just loved her voice. R.IP and thanks for the music. pic.twitter.com/jLWc2H7OvK

— Tony Blackburn OBE. (@tonyblackburn) February 24, 2025

Roberta Flack was a very close family friend and neighbor. She was an incredibly kind woman. Uniquely talented. I am eternally grateful to have known her. I’m heart broken she had to leave this earth. Will always love you. pic.twitter.com/kAbQoxWpZH

— Seán Ono Lennon (@seanonolennon) February 24, 2025

Born February 10, 1937, Flack’s musical journey began when she started classical piano lessons at the age of nine.

At just 15 years of age, she was awarded a scholarship to Howard University in Washington DC where was made assistant conductor of the university choir before returning to North Carolina following her father’s death in 1959.

After returning to Washington in the 1960s, Flack began work as a school teacher and accompanied opera singers at the Tivoli opera restaurant in Georgetown, later playing various clubs in the DC area before taking a residency at Mr Henry’s.

After years spent teaching, Flack began her recording career at the age of 32, rising to stardom with The First Time I Ever Saw Your Face after the iconic actor and director Clint Eastwood used the song as the soundtrack for a love scene in his film Play Misty For Me.

The song won the Grammy for record of the year in 1973. Flack went on to win best female pop vocal performance for her hit Killing Me Softly With His Song a year later.

In recognition of her talent, Flack received the lifetime achievement award from the Recording Academy in 2020.

-with PA.