Roberta Flack, timeless R&B singer-songwriter behind 'Killing Me Softly With His Song,' dies at 88
Briefly

Roberta Flack, the iconic Grammy Award-winning R&B singer known for her timeless ballads like "Killing Me Softly With His Song," passed away at 88 surrounded by family. Flack's illustrious career included numerous albums, hits, and four Grammy Awards. Classically trained, she defined her music style as "scientific soul," emphasizing dedication over glamour. Despite facing health challenges like ALS, Flack's influence remained significant, with accolades reflecting her artistry and social relevance. Her ability to convey deep emotions through simple melodies earned her a unique place in American music history, transforming the music landscape during her era.
"I don't want to be just the standard kind of commercial artist," she told The Times in 1973. "The thing that really makes you successful is your dedication to your art."
The Rev. Jesse Jackson described Flack as "socially relevant and politically unafraid."
The Washington Post said she "embodied the Quiet Storm a full decade before it became a successful radio format."
Read at Los Angeles Times
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