Roberta Flack, the iconic recording artist known for her intimate vocal and musical style, passed away on Monday, leaving behind a legacy of music that defies categorization. Her debut album, 'First Take,' released in 1969, showcased a blend of soul, jazz, flamenco, gospel, and folk, setting the stage for her influential career.
While Flack is best remembered for hits like 'The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face' and 'Killing Me Softly with His Song,' her musical talents extended far beyond these classics. One standout track from 'First Take' is her cover of Leonard Cohen's 'Hey, That's No Way to Say Goodbye,' which many consider a reimagination surpassing the original.
Another notable song from the same album is 'Angelitos Negros,' performed entirely in Spanish, based on a poem by Andrés Eloy Blanco. This track not only showcased Flack's vocal prowess but also served as a powerful anthem against racial discrimination.
In 1972, Flack achieved mainstream success with her cover of 'The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,' which earned her a Grammy for Record of the Year. Her rendition of 'Killing Me Softly with His Song' in 1973 further solidified her status as a musical powerhouse, winning her consecutive Grammy awards.
Flack's career continued to flourish with hits like 'Feel Like Makin' Love' in 1975 and 'The Closer I Get to You,' a soulful duet with Donny Hathaway. Despite the tragic loss of Hathaway during their collaboration, the song remains a testament to their musical chemistry.
Throughout the '80s and '90s, Flack continued to innovate, exploring genres like soft rock and pop. Her duet with Peabo Bryson on 'Tonight, I Celebrate My Love' and collaboration with Maxi Priest on 'Set the Night to Music' showcased her versatility and ability to adapt to changing musical landscapes.
Roberta Flack's contributions to music transcend time and genre, solidifying her as a legendary artist whose influence will continue to resonate for years to come.
