Written by: Emma Thompson

Roberta Flack: The Soulful Songstress of Quiet Storm

Roberta Flack is a legendary American singer known for her soulful, velvety voice and iconic hits that topped the Billboard charts, including "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face," "Killing Me Softly with His Song," and "Feel Like Makin' Love."

Flack's influence on the subgenre of contemporary R&B, known as quiet storm, is unparalleled, and her interpretations of songs by legendary songwriters like Leonard Cohen and members of the Beatles remain unmatched.

Early Life and Education

Roberta Cleopatra Flack was born on February 10, 1937, in Black Mountain, North Carolina, to parents Laron Flack, a Veterans Administration draftsman, and Irene (née Council) Flack, a church organist.

Growing up in a large, musical family in Arlington, Virginia, Flack was surrounded by music from a young age. She often accompanied the choir of Lomax African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church on piano, playing hymns and spirituals, and also enjoyed listening to contemporary gospel music at the Baptist church down the street.

The Making of a Musician

Flack's interest in playing the piano began when she was just nine years old. By her early teens, she excelled at classical piano, earning a full music scholarship to Howard University in Washington, D.C.

At Howard University, Flack changed her major from piano to voice and became an assistant conductor of the university choir. Her direction of a production of Aida received a standing ovation from the university faculty.

Career Highlights and Major Works

• "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" (1973) - Flack's rendition of Ewan MacColl's song, featured in the Clint Eastwood film Play Misty for Me, topped the Billboard charts and won the Grammy Award for Record of the Year.

• "Killing Me Softly with His Song" (1973) - Flack's interpretation of Charles Fox and Norman Gimbel's song won the Grammy Award for Record of the Year for the second consecutive year.

• "Feel Like Makin' Love" (1974) - Flack's sultry, slow-burning ballad, written by Gene McDaniels, became a classic of quiet storm R&B.

Awards and Honors

Flack's numerous accolades include:

• 4 Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance

• 2 American Music Awards

• Inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame

Legacy and Impact

Roberta Flack's contributions to the world of music are immeasurable. Her influence on quiet storm R&B and her interpretations of classic songs have inspired generations of musicians and music lovers alike.

Flack's legacy extends beyond her music, too. She has been an advocate for arts education and has supported various charitable organizations throughout her career.

As a true icon of American music, Roberta Flack's soulful voice and timeless songs continue to captivate audiences today, ensuring her place in the pantheon of music legends.

Personal Milestones and Key Life Events

In addition to her illustrious music career, Flack has also been a dedicated educator, having taught music and piano privately and at public schools.

In her later years, Flack has continued to perform and record music, albeit at a slower pace. Her legacy as a music icon remains unwavering, and her contributions to the world of music will forever be cherished.