Celebrities mourn icon: See the star-studded tribute to Roberta Flack that’s melting hearts
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The world of music recently paused to honor the memory of a true icon, Roberta Flack, whose voice and artistry transcended generations and genres.
The Killing Me Softly singer was celebrated in a heartfelt and star-studded funeral service that brought together luminaries from the music industry and beyond, all gathered within the historic walls of New York’s Abyssinian Baptist Church.
As tributes poured in, it was clear that her influence stretched far beyond her timeless hits, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of fans and fellow artists alike.
Roberta Flack's journey from the segregated South to the pinnacle of musical acclaim is a testament to her indomitable spirit and extraordinary talent.
Born in North Carolina, Flack rose to prominence in the 1970s and '80s, captivating audiences with her soulful ballads and powerful performances.
Her music, a blend of R&B, jazz, and folk, resonated with listeners worldwide, earning her four Grammy Awards and a place in the pantheon of music legends.
Flack is remembered not only for her music but also for the barriers she broke and the paths she paved.
She was honored Monday afternoon with a public memorial service featuring planned performances from her longtime friend and fellow R&B legend Stevie Wonder, along with a surprise tribute from Lauryn Hill and Wyclef Jean of the Fugees, who credited Flack as a major influence on their music.
Held in Harlem at one of the nation’s oldest Black churches, the ceremony celebrated the four-time Grammy winner’s legacy through both sermon and song.
"She was raised in segregation in Carolina, she was raised when you had to sit in the back of the bus. So how did she end up singing these beautiful songs?" Rev. Al Sharpton asked the full congregation. "Because if you know the Lord, you can sing the Lord's song."
Hill's impromptu performance of The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face was a moving tribute to Flack's timeless influence, while her rendition of Killing Me Softly With His Song alongside Jean was a powerful reminder of the song's enduring legacy.
During the service, Hill and the Fugees were met with a warm round of applause as they made their entrance.
"We weren't formally asked to do this because I think they were a little shy in asking us to attend, so we kind of bum-rushed the service because it really wouldn't be possible for us to just stand by and not participate in this homegoing service," Hill remarked.
Stevie Wonder, a friend and fellow icon, added his harmonica to the mix, creating a symphony of sorrow and celebration that echoed through the hallowed church.
The service also included appearances from close friends and fellow musicians, including Alicia Keys, India.Arie, Valerie Simpson, Phylicia Rashad, and Dionne Warwick, all of whom came to honor Flack’s enduring legacy.
Roberta Flack's passing on February 24 was a moment of great loss for the music community and her fans. Her representative said that she died “peacefully, surrounded by her family.”
Source: Sed Et / Youtube.
At 88 years old, she left behind a rich tapestry of songs that continue to inspire and comfort. Her battle with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, prevented her from singing and made even speaking difficult. She stopped singing professionally until her death.
Flack's manager, Suzanne Koga, reflected on the multi-genre star’s impact at the time of her passing, stating, "If Roberta Flack was unlike singers who came before her, there were many who would emulate her in her wake. In fact, her influence has never stopped reverberating. She was a woman who sang in a measured voice, but her measurements moved times and events as much as they moved hearts."
Source: Entertainment Tonight / Youtube.
As we at The GrayVine reflect on Roberta Flack's life and contributions, we invite our readers to share their memories and experiences. How did Flack's music touch your life? Do you have a favorite song or performance that holds a special place in your heart?
Join the conversation below and let's celebrate the life of a woman whose voice was a beacon of hope, love, and resilience.
The Killing Me Softly singer was celebrated in a heartfelt and star-studded funeral service that brought together luminaries from the music industry and beyond, all gathered within the historic walls of New York’s Abyssinian Baptist Church.
As tributes poured in, it was clear that her influence stretched far beyond her timeless hits, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of fans and fellow artists alike.
Roberta Flack's journey from the segregated South to the pinnacle of musical acclaim is a testament to her indomitable spirit and extraordinary talent.
Born in North Carolina, Flack rose to prominence in the 1970s and '80s, captivating audiences with her soulful ballads and powerful performances.
Her music, a blend of R&B, jazz, and folk, resonated with listeners worldwide, earning her four Grammy Awards and a place in the pantheon of music legends.
Flack is remembered not only for her music but also for the barriers she broke and the paths she paved.
Roberta Flack was honored at her funeral in New York, with performances by Stevie Wonder, Lauryn Hill, and Wyclef Jean. Image source: Entertainment Tonight / Youtube.
She was honored Monday afternoon with a public memorial service featuring planned performances from her longtime friend and fellow R&B legend Stevie Wonder, along with a surprise tribute from Lauryn Hill and Wyclef Jean of the Fugees, who credited Flack as a major influence on their music.
Held in Harlem at one of the nation’s oldest Black churches, the ceremony celebrated the four-time Grammy winner’s legacy through both sermon and song.
"She was raised in segregation in Carolina, she was raised when you had to sit in the back of the bus. So how did she end up singing these beautiful songs?" Rev. Al Sharpton asked the full congregation. "Because if you know the Lord, you can sing the Lord's song."
Hill's impromptu performance of The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face was a moving tribute to Flack's timeless influence, while her rendition of Killing Me Softly With His Song alongside Jean was a powerful reminder of the song's enduring legacy.
During the service, Hill and the Fugees were met with a warm round of applause as they made their entrance.
The memorial service took place at the Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem and included tributes through sermon and song. Image source: Associated Press / Youtube.
"We weren't formally asked to do this because I think they were a little shy in asking us to attend, so we kind of bum-rushed the service because it really wouldn't be possible for us to just stand by and not participate in this homegoing service," Hill remarked.
Roberta Flack, who passed away on February 24, was remembered for her impact on music and her struggle with ALS, which led to her retirement. Image source: Associated Press / Youtube.
Stevie Wonder, a friend and fellow icon, added his harmonica to the mix, creating a symphony of sorrow and celebration that echoed through the hallowed church.
The service also included appearances from close friends and fellow musicians, including Alicia Keys, India.Arie, Valerie Simpson, Phylicia Rashad, and Dionne Warwick, all of whom came to honor Flack’s enduring legacy.
Roberta Flack's passing on February 24 was a moment of great loss for the music community and her fans. Her representative said that she died “peacefully, surrounded by her family.”
Source: Sed Et / Youtube.
At 88 years old, she left behind a rich tapestry of songs that continue to inspire and comfort. Her battle with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, prevented her from singing and made even speaking difficult. She stopped singing professionally until her death.
Flack's manager, Suzanne Koga, reflected on the multi-genre star’s impact at the time of her passing, stating, "If Roberta Flack was unlike singers who came before her, there were many who would emulate her in her wake. In fact, her influence has never stopped reverberating. She was a woman who sang in a measured voice, but her measurements moved times and events as much as they moved hearts."
Source: Entertainment Tonight / Youtube.
As we at The GrayVine reflect on Roberta Flack's life and contributions, we invite our readers to share their memories and experiences. How did Flack's music touch your life? Do you have a favorite song or performance that holds a special place in your heart?
Join the conversation below and let's celebrate the life of a woman whose voice was a beacon of hope, love, and resilience.
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