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The news of musical icon Roberta Flack’s passing continues to ripple through the music and entertainment industries. The 88-year-old singer died peacefully at home, surrounded by family.
Her death follows a long battle with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. Back in November 2022, her representatives revealed that the illness had made it difficult for her to speak or sing.
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Roberta Flack inspired generations of singers.
Honoree Roberta Flack onstage at the 2017 Black Girls Rock! at NJPAC on August 5, 2017 in Newark, New Jersey. Source: Paul Zimmerman / Getty
Flack’s distinctive voice gave the world unforgettable hits like “Killing Me Softly With His Song” and “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face.” While she dominated the charts in the ‘70s and ‘80s, a new generation discovered her music when Lauryn Hill and The Fugees reintroduced “Killing Me Softly” in the ‘90s. Flack’s songs also appeared in the 1995 culture classic Waiting To Exhale with Whitney Houston and Angela Bassett.
According to Billboard, Flack had four albums reach the top three on the Billboard 200 and over 24 hits on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. A Grammy favorite, she earned 14 nominations and took home three awards.
A statement from her spokesperson confirmed her passing on February 24, 2025: “We are heartbroken that the glorious Roberta Flack passed away this morning. She died peacefully, surrounded by her family. Roberta broke boundaries and records. She was also a proud educator.”
Celebrity tributes to Roberta Flack pour in from Kelly Rowland, Jennifer Hudson, and more.
Since the news broke, tributes have been pouring in from celebrities and fans alike. Many powerhouse vocalists, inspired by Flack’s artistry, have taken to social media to honor her legacy.
Kelly Rowland shared on X (formerly Twitter): “My heart just sank!! Our Dear Ms. Roberta Flack has ascended beyond, but what beauty she has left us with!! THANK YOU for your effortless, most beautiful gift! THANK YOU for being a part of the soundtrack to the most tender moments in my life! So Grateful for you!”
Jennifer Hudson also posted: “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!!!”
“Back to The Stars Back to The Trees Back to The Rivers that Flow to The Seas. Never, gone from Us. Alive,” wrote Anita Baker to honor the late singer. She added “In Every Sunrise Roberta Flack.”
Producer and musician Questlove paid tribute with a black-and-white photo of Flack on Instagram, captioning it: “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!!! Thank You, Roberta Flack. Rest In Melody.”
These celebrity tributes and condolences show Roberta Flack’s importance in music and culture. Her influence is undeniable – and we don’t doubt that her sound will continue to be part of our lives for generations to come.
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