Roberta Flack, the legendary singer and pianist renowned for her soulful interpretations of songs like "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" and "Killing Me Softly with His Song," passed away at her home in New York on February 24, 2025, at the age of 88. Her death was confirmed by her publicist, Elaine Schock. Flack had been battling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), which she publicly disclosed in 2022.

Born Roberta Cleopatra Flack on February 10, 1937, in Black Mountain, North Carolina, she was raised in Arlington, Virginia. A musical prodigy, Flack received a full scholarship to Howard University at the age of 15, initially pursuing a career as a classical pianist before transitioning to vocal performance.

Flack's breakthrough came when Clint Eastwood featured her rendition of "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" in his 1971 film "Play Misty for Me." The song soared to the top of the Billboard charts in 1972 and earned her a Grammy Award for Record of the Year. She made history by winning the same award consecutively in 1973 for "Killing Me Softly with His Song," a testament to her emotive vocal style and profound impact on the music industry.

Throughout the 1970s, Flack's collaborations with fellow Howard University alumnus Donny Hathaway produced timeless duets such as "Where Is the Love" and "The Closer I Get to You," both of which received critical acclaim and commercial success.

Beyond her musical achievements, Flack was a dedicated humanitarian. She founded the Roberta Flack School of Music at the Hyde Leadership Charter School in the Bronx, providing free music education to underprivileged students.

Flack's influence extended across genres, blending jazz, soul, R&B, and folk into a unique sound that resonated with audiences worldwide. Her legacy is marked by her ability to convey deep emotion through her music, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of many.

She is survived by her family, friends, and countless fans who continue to cherish her contributions to music and culture.