Tributes from the music industry have poured in for “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” and “Killing Me Softly With His Song” singer, Roberta Flack, who died at age 88 on Monday. The Grammy winner died of undisclosed causes but passed “peacefully surrounded by her family,” according to her representatives.
“We are heartbroken that the glorious Roberta Flack passed away this morning, February 24, 2025,” the statement reads. “Roberta broke boundaries and records. She was also a proud educator.”
Musicians and entertainers from Questlove and Tyler, the Creator to Jennifer Hudson issued tributes on social media, lauding Flack’s lasting impact on pop and R&B music history. Flack claimed several hits throughout the ’70s, including her highest-charting singles, “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” (No. 1 for six weeks in 1972), and “The Closer I Get To You” with Donny Hathaway (No. 2 in 1978).
Dionne Warwick said in a statement shared with Variety, “Losing friends, especially ones that feel more like family as I’m experiencing, hearing of my dear friend – Professor Roberta Flack. We now say Rest In Peace and receive the loving award the Heavenly Father has for her. I’ll miss our conversation about the journey through music we would have, as well as the love of the music we have been able to share. You will be missed, dear friend.”
Brenda Russell, who wrote and released music with Flack last year, said, “My prayers are with the friends and family of Ms. ROBERTA FLACK who just made her transition. Her voice was stellar and much appreciated by millions. The sweetness of her vocal tone was soothing and healing for so many. She will be missed by so many fans. My friend made a hell of an impact on the planet with songs like ‘Killing Me Softly’ and ‘The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face.’ So glad I recorded the song we wrote together with Barry Miles.”
Questlove wrote on Instagram alongside a black-and-white photo of Flack: “Thank You Roberta Flack. Rest In Melody.”
“My heart just sank!!” Kelly Rowland wrote on X. “Our Dear Ms.Roberta Flack has ascended beyond but what beauty she has left us with!! THANK YOU for your effortless, most beautiful gift! THANK YOU for being apart of the soundtrack to the most tender moments in my life! So Grateful for you!”
Jennifer Hudson added, “So sad to hear of Roberta Flack’s passing. One of the great soul singers of all time. Rest well, Ms. Flack. Your legacy lives on!!!”
Tyler, the Creator said on X, “Safe Travels Roberta Flack.”
