Roberta Flack: An Award-Winning Singer Dead at 88

Kadia Zhou (9) | STAFF REPORTER

Legendary singer Roberta Flack, known for her timeless, iconic songs like The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face and Killing Me Softly with His Song, passed away on February 24, 2025, from Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALC) and eventually cardiac arrest, at the age of 88. A classically trained pianist turned R&B and jazz musician, Flack’s soulful voice earned her multiple Grammy Awards and a lasting impact on music history.

Her collaborations with Donny Hathaway and influence on artists like Lauryn Hill solidified her legacy and influence across many generations. Hill, in a heartfelt tribute, described Flack as “genial, intelligent, kind, and militant.” With a career spanning decades, Flack’s music continues to be listened to everywhere, making sure her voice will never be forgotten.