R&B legend Roberta Flack dies at 88
- Publish Date
- Tuesday, 25 February 2025, 8:24AM

R&B and soul superstar Roberta Flack has died at the age of 88.
Her death was confirmed by a representative, who said she died peacefully on Monday morning, surrounded by her family
Flack, known for her iconic hits “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” and “Killing Me Softly With His Song,” had been unable to sing after being diagnosed with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) in November 2022.
ALS is a neurodegenerative condition that affects the brain and nerves
Despite her diagnosis, Flack remained active in her musical and creative pursuits
She started playing piano at the age of 9 and was considered a child prodigy
Flack shot to fame in 1971 when Clint Eastwood used “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” in his directorial debut, “Play Misty for Me”
The cause of her death is unknown
She went on to become the first artist to win the Grammy Award for Record of the Year in two consecutive years, with “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” in 1973 and “Killing Me Softly With His Song” in 1974.
Flack's legacy and influence in the music industry will be remembered
- Bang! Showbiz and republished with edits and permission.