Roberta Flack: The Soulful Songbird Who Serenaded Generations
Roberta Flack, iconic vocalist and pianist known for hits like ‘Killing Me Softly’, has passed away at age 88. A Grammy-winning artist, Flack’s career soared after Clint Eastwood featured her song in ‘Play Misty for Me’. She broke records with consecutive Grammys and was influential in social justice. Remembered for her musical prowess and soulful spirit, Flack’s legacy continues to inspire.
Roberta Flack, the sensational Grammy-winning singer behind the classic tunes like “Killing Me Softly,” sadly bid farewell to the world at the ripe age of 88 on Monday. Known for her velvety voice and piano prowess, she took the music scene by storm in the 70s and continued to influence artists long after her prime. Flack passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her family, according to her publicist Elaine Schock.
Flack shot to fame post her 30th birthday when Clint Eastwood used her hit “The First Time I Ever Saw Your Face” in a steamy scene of the 1971 film “Play Misty for Me.” This hymn-like melody topped the Billboard charts in 1972, landing Flack a Grammy for record of the year. She shared, “The record label wanted to have it re-recorded with a faster tempo, but he said he wanted it exactly as it was.” Talk about sticking to your guns!
In 1973, Flack hit another sweet note with “Killing Me Softly With His Song,” and became the first artist in history to nab consecutive Grammys for best record. Jersey City’s pride, she had the magic touch to unleash every emotion through her voice, as jazz musician Les McCann described: “her voice touched, tapped, trapped, and kicked every emotion I’ve ever known.”
Flack emerged not just as a singing sensation but also a vibrant figure in social justice, befriending influential personalities like Rev. Jesse Jackson and Angela Davis, whom she even visited during her trial. This lady didn’t just stop at music; she was a force on and off stage, performing at Jackie Robinson’s funeral, and contributing to Marlo Thomas’s feminist project, “Free to Be … You and Me.”
Born in Black Mountain, North Carolina, and raised in Arlington, Virginia, Flack showed her musical talent early. She clinched a scholarship to Howard University at the tender age of 15! Her 70s hits, including “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” showcased her versatility, but her collaboration with Donny Hathaway was pure magic – until tragedy struck when he died after a breakdown during a recording session.
Flack reminisced, “We were deeply connected creatively,” showcasing a bond that marked a unique musical synergy between them. Though she didn’t hit the same success post-70s, she still dropped gems like “Tonight, I Celebrate My Love” in the 80s. The 90s saw a resurgence thanks to the Fugees’ Grammy-winning cover of her hit, where she even got to share the stage with them – talk about a comeback!
Throughout her sparkling career, she bagged five Grammys and was even celebrated with a lifetime achievement Grammy in 2020. With fellow artists like John Legend and Ariana Grande singing her praises, Flack undoubtedly left her mark, stating, “Through music we understand what we are thinking and feeling.”
Flack didn’t shy away from love either, marrying Stephen Novosel despite family tension. She also had a son, musician Bernard Wright. Living in Manhattan’s Dakota building with iconic residents like John Lennon, she received warm support from him to produce her Beatles covers album, “Let It Be Roberta.” Rock on!
Not just a performer, Flack dedicated time to young musicians through the Roberta Flack School of Music. Starting her career teaching in D.C. schools, she mentored kids by incorporating music into fun teaching methods. “I was teaching at Banneker Junior High where kids weren’t privileged, but thankfully had music education,” she chuckled. Flack showed that a lively classroom, fueled by her voice, is always a hit!
In summary, Roberta Flack’s legacy lives on through her unforgettable music and her impactful role in social movements. Her story is a delightful mix of talent, resilience, and social consciousness. Flack’s graceful approach to music not only made her an icon of the 70s but also left an indelible mark on future generations. Here’s to a legend who could serenade the world and reshape it simultaneously!
Original Source: www.independent.ie
