Roberta Flack's 11 Essential Songs
At a New York concert in 1997, Roberta Flack referred to her voice as a 'blessed instrument.' For generations of listeners it was just that, a spellbinding force that could be cool, or luxurious, or swell with suggestive power, often in the same song.
Flack, who died on Monday at 88, began her career as a schoolteacher with a solid grounding in both classical music and Black church singing. She ended up one of the supreme voices of the 1970s, scoring multiple No. 1 hits that established her as a star of interpretive pop-soul, capable of stunning radio listeners and critics alike.
She was a master of the revelatory reinvention. Her first hit, 'The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,' was originally a folk ballad by Ewan MacColl. Peggy Seeger's 1957 recording of it is a brisk, warbling take with arpeggiated acoustic guitar — a classic example of the kind of carefree-songbird tunes from the early folk revival. In Flack's hands it is slow, stirring eroticism, with a controlled range of vocal dynamics that moves from whisper-delicate to a kind of power that feels like a carnal memory.
She did it again in 1973 with 'Killing Me Softly With His Song' — originally by Lori Lieberman, another folkie — which Flack transformed into a hypnotic meditation. Two decades later, Lauryn Hill and the Fugees shifted its shape again with their own remake.
With those tracks, Flack became the first artist to take record of the year at the Grammy Awards two consecutive times, with 'The First Time' winning in 1973 and 'Killing Me Softly' in 1974.
Those are just two of Flack's most familiar recordings, in a career that also included hit collaborations with singers like Donny Hathaway and Peabo Bryson, and later explorations into jazz standards. Here are 11 of her essential tracks.
Though it would take nearly three years for this track from Flack's debut album to become a hit — a placement in Clint Eastwood's movie 'Play Misty for Me' was the catalyst — it introduced all the elements of Flack's greatness as a vocalist and an interpreter. Turning a folk ballad by Ewan MacColl into a rich, amorous incantation, Flack controls her voice with delicate restraint, letting it swell from a near-whisper to just enough of a cry to reveal a deep passion within. It went to No. 1 and became the top song of 1972.
Her first single was a protest song. Written by Gene McDaniels, and earlier recorded by Les McCann — the jazz pianist who discovered Flack and brought her to Atlantic Records — 'Compared to What' has a right-on soul-jazz groove and lyrics like 'The president, he's got his war/Folks don't know just what it's for.' Flack's rhapsodic vocal flights offered a sign of her potential.
Another stunning example of Flack's interpretive power, and of her role in curating a new pop songbook in the 1970s. She paints this modern standard — made famous with lachrymose sweetness by the Everly Brothers — with soft blue notes and an expertly calibrated range of vocal dynamics.
By the time Flack released her cover of this Shirelles' classic, in late 1971, Carole King (who wrote the song with Gerry Goffin) had already done her own slowed-down version on her megaselling LP 'Tapestry.' But Flack's performance is still striking, a haunting showcase for her voice as well as her delicate and entrancing piano arrangement.
In 1971, Flack performed at an Independence Day festival in Ghana, along with Ike and Tina Turner, the Staple Singers, Wilson Pickett and Santana. Her a cappella version of the spiritual 'Oh Freedom' is a heart stopper, both a moaning prayer and a taste of rapture. The soundtrack has long since fallen into obscurity; it was never released on CD in the United States and is unavailable on streaming services.
Donny Hathaway, a gifted and troubled singer and songwriter, was one of Flack's most important collaborators, writing early tracks and arranging the songs on her second album. In 1972 they collaborated on a joint LP, 'Roberta Flack & Donny Hathaway,' that became a blueprint for '70s romantic soul. 'Where Is the Love,' a No. 1 R&B hit that remains in constant radio rotation, is a perfect duet, a tale of romance lost that still feels like a bonbon.
Another surprising song choice that Flack fully remade into a giant, signature hit. She encountered Lori Lieberman's folky original while on a plane, then reworked the chord structure and added a soaring interlude, transforming the tune into a soulful odyssey. She tried it out at a concert with Quincy Jones, who told her, 'Ro, don't sing that daggone song no more until you record it,' as Flack once recalled. The recording became her second No. 1 hit, and got another boost when the Fugees remade the track in 1996.
Flack produced her sixth studio album herself, under the name Rubina Flake, with a smooth touch that comes through clearly on this sensuous title track, her third No. 1 hit. The album was delayed by months of strained recording sessions, and was a relative flop upon its eventual release in early 1975.
Not written as a duet, this song nonetheless reunited Flack and Hathaway for another gauzy crossover hit, which went No. 1 R&B and No. 2 on the Hot 100. Before Hathaway's death in 1979, the two had begun recording another duets LP, which was released the following year as 'Roberta Flack Featuring Donny Hathaway.'
Flack found a new partner for romantic duets in Peabo Bryson, whose smooth baritone was radio gold but struck many critics as a bit too squeaky-clean, especially in his appearances on Disney soundtracks. 'Tonight, I Celebrate My Love,' written by Goffin and Michael Masser, was the lead single from their joint album 'Born to Love,' and reached the Top 20.
On 'Roberta,' an album of jazz and soul standards, Flack delivered this unorthodox but captivating take on 'Angel Eyes,' a boozy tale of lost love that's long been associated with Ella Fitzgerald. The song drips with pungent blue notes, but Flack — singing over a jazz combo at a ponderous tempo — finds a way to luxuriate in the melody, bending the lyrics enough to make any fan perk up.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
5 hours ago
- Yahoo
Beyoncé lights up Paris again on Night 2: New dazzling looks, more special guests
PARIS — Beyoncé Knowles-Carter launched her second show in Paris, and she delivered another high-energy spectacle with new fashion and more special guests. The Grammy-winning singer kicked off her June 21 show at Stade de France in Paris around 8:36 p.m local time. The show marked the second show at the stadium on her Cowboy Carter and the Rodeo Chitlin' Circuit Tour. She is set to hit the stage for the third and final time June 22. 'Y'all are absolutely stunning. Thank you guys for having us tonight. Thank y'all for being here tonight," Beyoncé said as she opened the show. "I'm so thankful for your loyalty for almost 30 years." Beyoncé first launched her tour in Paris on Juneteenth, when fans planned a powerful display at her concert to commemorate the holiday, which celebrates the end of slavery in the United States. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Beyoncé (@beyonce) The night was made especially special when Beyoncé brought out Miley Cryus and the two women sang their beloved duet "II Most Wanted." Dressed in all gold, the Grammy-winning singers held hands and the crowd went wild as Cryus approached the stage. Christian Louboutin spotted at Cowboy Carter Tour! 🤠 — Beyoncé Press. (@beyoncepress) June 21, 2025 Saturday's show proved to be another groundbreaking spectacle filled with new fashion looks and a few changes. And special attendees such as French designer Christian Louboutin were there to witness it. Beyoncé's stunning new opening outfit in Paris night 2. — NotBeyoncebutViolence (@ourhermitage) June 21, 2025 Beyoncé first debuted a new look during the opening number of the show, donning a white ensemble and a matching cowboy hat. OH THIS NEW ALLIGATOR TEARS LOOK CHEWS😭😭😭 — 𝗱𝗮𝗻𝗻𝘆🫧💚 (@beyoncegarden) June 21, 2025 And the new fashion looks continued throughout the entire night. THIS LOOK IS JUST STUNNING😭😭😭 — 𝗱𝗮𝗻𝗻𝘆🫧💚 (@beyoncegarden) June 21, 2025 One fan wrote "New outfit for 'Alligator Tears,' 'Just for Fun,' 'Protector,' and 'Flamenco' — Beyoncé looks incredible!" ANOTHER NEW LOOK JESUS😭😭😭 — 𝗱𝗮𝗻𝗻𝘆🫧💚 (@beyoncegarden) June 21, 2025 And fans noted her outfits weren't the only change. During the show, Beyoncé debuted another special guest: The Mayyas, an alternative dance crew founded by Nadim Cherfan. They performed behind her during 'Protector,' stepping in for her usual dancers. 'We have a special guest tonight. Please give it up for The Mayyas,' Beyoncé told the crowd, and she made sure to shout them out again before the show ended. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Mayyas مَيّاس 🇱🇧 (@mayyasofficial) Cherfan and the Mayyas have collaborated with Beyoncé before, and many fans were thrilled to see them on stage once again. As fans know, Beyoncé first debuted her "Cowboy Carter" tour at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on April 28 with 39 songs on the set list. Her shows have been filled with family, fashion, different music genres, and most notably country music and cultural commentary. "I love you so much Paris. Thank y'all so much," she said toward the end of the concert. "Thank you so much for your energy." The nine-city tour will span the U.S. and Europe with the grand finale taking place in Las Vegas on July 26. Follow Caché McClay, the USA TODAY Network's Beyoncé Knowles-Carter reporter, on Instagram, TikTok and X as @cachemcclay. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Beyoncé stuns again Night 2 in Paris: More new looks, special guests
USA Today
5 hours ago
- USA Today
Lynn Hamilton, 'Sanford and Son\
Lynn Hamilton, an actress known for her roles on "Sanford and Son" and "The Waltons," has died. She was 95. Hamilton's death was confirmed in a statement on Facebook and Instagram from her former manager and publicist, Rev. Calvin Carson, who said that the actress died on June 19 "surrounded by her grandchildren, loved ones and caregivers." "With profound gratitude and admiration, we celebrate the extraordinary life of iconic actress Alzenia 'Lynn' Hamilton-Jenkins, whose remarkable legacy continues to uplift and inspire," Carson said. "Her illustrious career, spanning over five decades, has left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment, motivating audiences across the globe through her work as a model, stage, film, and television actress." Hamilton starred as nurse Donna Harris, girlfriend of Fred Sanford (Redd Foxx), on the classic sitcom "Sanford and Son" beginning in 1972. The influential show, which aired on NBC, also starred Demond Wilson and LaWanda Page. Hamilton also portrayed Verdie on the CBS drama "The Waltons," beginning in 1973. She reprised the role in the television movies "A Walton Thanksgiving Reunion" and "A Walton Easter." 'Sanford and Son': Looking back at the 'double-edged' Black sitcom pioneer 50 years later The actress made her on-screen debut in the 1958 John Cassavetes film "Shadows," and throughout her career, she appeared on shows like "Dangerous Women," "Room 222," "Mannix," "Gunsmoke," "Hawaii Five-O," "Good Times," "Starsky and Hutch," "The Rockford Files" and "Roots: The Next Generation." She also starred on the NBC soap opera "Generations." On the film side, Hamilton had roles in movies like "Lady Sings the Blues," starring Diana Ross and Billy Dee Williams, and "Buck and the Preacher," starring Sidney Poitier. Hamilton continued to act into the 2000s with roles on "NYPD Blue," "The Practice" and "Curb Your Enthusiasm." Nathaniel Taylor, best known as Rollo on 'Sanford and Son,' dies at 80 Hamilton was married to writer Frank Jenkins until his death in 2014. They worked together on theater productions such as "Nobody" and "The Bert Williams Story," according to Carson, who said that their "partnership was a shining example of creativity, love, and dedication."
Buzz Feed
16 hours ago
- Buzz Feed
27 Torrid Items To Reinvent Your Style This Summer
A denim trucker jacket because every season deserves a tried and true staple that goes with literally everything. But, don't get it twisted. Every denim jacket isn't just a replica of another. This one features a trucker jacket silhouette and a distressed hem to set it apart from the others. Promising review: "I received this jacket in the mail yesterday and I like it. I feel like to could be styled with dresses, jeans and trousers depending on the look you are trying to achieve. IMO, the fit is true to size. Also, in my opinion, there is not a lot of stretch. I ordered a 2 and that's what i normally order in shirts, jackets and blazers. The sleeves hit right at the wrist. My favorite part of the jacket is the raw hem at the bottom. I will probably also purchase the darker denim. I would recommend." —Lovin All Things DenimPrice: $41.94 (originally $69.90; available in sizes M–6X and two colors) A sleeveless mini dress featuring pockets that reviewers can't stop raving about. They love the knit fabric and the smoothing effect the dress gives. They say it's great for every occasion because it can be dressed up or down. Bonus: It comes in many colors. Promising reviews: "Love the new colors! I can't help but buy these dresses! These dresses always fit and look good. Can't go wrong." —CJS8082"Comfortable Fit! Love how the flare lays around my belly area. I bought several more colors in this because I'm in love with these! Used this Black one with my Western Torrid Boots for a Mexican Festival 🥳 and got so many compliments 🥰🙌🏻❤️ All I had to do was accessorize it. The stretch and length were a blessing all night long 😍. Love Love Love This Style! Thank you, My Fabulous Torrid!!!!! ❤️🙌🏻" —LaPalomaDelValle95601Price: $20+ (originally $55.90; available in sizes M–6X and six colors) A corset tank with a knit fabric that holds you close for a somewhat bodycon effect. Did I mention the tie straps? If you've got an occasion on the books and are rummaging for something to wear, this corset tank combo will always stop the show. And that matching skirt you're eyeing, you can get it right here. Promising review: "Bought this in a two and I'm so happy I did! It's snug on the fit as you'd expect for a corset tank. It's stupid cute! I paired it with a skirt bought from Torrid years ago, and it looks amazing with it. This shirt looks amazing with everything I've tried it with so far, may end up buying it in more colors, I love it that much, the color I did buy was black." —I_love_milk_dudsPrice: $21.54 (originally $35.90; available in sizes M–6X and three colors) A triangle swim top, that's wire-free for your comfort, with matching high-waisted cheeky bottom, ready to ensure you stay photo-ready at the next pool party, even if you never take a dip. Promising reviews: "I bought this bikini top a month ago to help build my confidence in my physical. The color and the shape of the product work really well, and I'm so happy that I found the design pattern I absolutely love. I would totally recommend this product." —Anonymous"Big girl, big fun! Great fit for the summer sun. The waist and cup sizes are just the right fit. Gives support. Looks good wet or dry." —AnonymousPrice: $35.94 for the top (originally $59.90; available in sizes L–6X and three styles) and 20+ for the bottoms (originally $44.90; available in sizes M–6X and nine styles) A leopard sarong ideal for weekend getaways when multipurpose clothing reigns supreme. You can wear it as a skirt or a dress for a barely-there garment on the hottest of days. Promising review: "So, I purchased this in leopard print. And thought it was cute. I have never found a sarong that fits well. I got this and omg! It fits so well in both styles, the dress style and the sarong style. this will be my go-to this summer, I am so glad I bought it!" —theedarkcrystalPrice: $14.95 (originally $29.90; also available in two other colors) A button front overall set on upgrading your usual farmhouse chic attire. These overalls aren't rough like other denim; they're softer for added comfort. And, the haltered top adds a little sauciness that you don't get from traditional overalls. Promising reviews: "These are so dang cute and comfortable! I've never had a pair of overalls that weren't too short in the rise. These are terrific!" —QueenKarin"Total score. I love a good pair of bibs. The ties are awesome and the back is not like farmer bibs. I did get an 18 for more room. I get so many compliments every time I wear them. I am thinking about another pair for some patches." —Kris10starrPrice: $59.94 (originally $99.90; available in sizes 16–22) A drop cherry earring so ~sweet~ for your go-to summer 'fit... whether that's a dress and sandals, or a basic tank, high-rise shorts, and your fave slides. Price: $11.94 (originally $19.90) A V-neck tee in an assortment of 21 colors to be used at your discretion, all summer long. Perhaps you just want to lounge around in an ultra-soft tee. Or, maybe you want to twist it up into a crop top for more stylish flair. And if you want to wear one every day of the week, that's your business. Promising reviews: "Absolutely love the cowhide color! I got so many compliments. And the fit and feel of the shirt is awesome!" —angelmir"Finally, a t-shirt that fits well and looks great on. I actually went back to order another color!!!" —Smiling76Price: $10+ (originally $27.90; available in sizes M–6X and 21 colors) A sheer button-up shirt for those who need a few pieces to add to their workplace-appropriate collection. It can also serve as a thin jacket when the summer nights get cool and you want a little something on your arms. Price: $33.54 (originally $54.90; available in sizes M–6X) A ghosty summer earring, or shall we say *summerweenie* earring, for the spooky at heart who still love to play in the sun. Once you pop out these puppies, you'll know it's only a matter of months until you get to Halloween. Price: $11.94 (originally $19.90) A pair of cork-sole heels because the natural wood look makes it the perfect shoe to pair with your maxi dress, denim shorts, and skinny jeans. Yes! We've found our summer heel. Price: $39.54 (originally $65.90; available in sizes 6.5–13) A mesh maxi skirt with flowers galore that'll look great with your favorite combat boots (because yes, you're edgy year round). Price: $35.94 (originally $59.90; available in sizes M–6X) A smocked crop top and skirt set so you don't have to worry about matching pieces together. The halter top and skirt, complete with leg slit, would like to be your plus one for the beach bonfire this weeend. Promising review: "Get this! I stepped out my comfort zone and with full intention to return it once it came in from it on and LOVED it! Top and bottom is stretchy. Theres 1 slit. Could've added another one ot the one could've been higher. Going to add some wedges, accessories and maybe a Jean jacket if the weather isnt warm enough. I got a 1 bc I'm top heavy. It was perfect!" —TorriddivaJPrice: $20 (originally $99.90; available in sizes 2X–6X) A platform sandal in case you've been on the hunt for a shoe that can withstand hours on your feet with no problem. Promising review: "I bought these in green a month ago and loved them so much I ordered the other colors. They fit well, are not too bulky and are very comfortable. I bought my usual Torrid size and I had no problems." —AngelB05Price: $33.54 (originally $55.90; available in sizes 6–13 and three colors) A pair of high-rise pull-on shorts so your denim jorts can take the day off on warm days when you'd prefer to wear a lighter material. Price: $10 (originally $29.90; available in sizes M–6X and two colors) And! a matching collared top to turn those garments into a travel-friendly ensemble. Plus, if you think about it, you can never have enough loungewear. Promising review: "So soft and feels amazing. I bought this in blue and may *need* to get every color. I love how this feels and how I look in it. It's casual, yet could be worn to work. GREAT TOP!" —AH251Price: $59.90 (available in sizes M–6X and three colors) A halter midi dress in a ~hot~ pink color that's practically screaming at you to usher in the island vibes. Sure, we may not be able to go to the island, but we can always bring the island to us. The first step? Throwing on this dress! Promising review: "This dress is summer-ready fun. Love the neckline, and the fit across the bust is great because the smocking is so perfect. It's a sweet color!" —AzcynPrice: $35.99+ (originally $75.90; available in sizes M–6X and two colors) A pair of biker shorts because truthfully, you can never have enough, especially when they come in so many colors. Come summer festivities, you'll appreciate the stretchy material that'll give you the freedom to move when you attend your local free concert in the park. Promising review: "These bike shorts are the perfect length to wear with a T-shirt around the house! They are super soft and super stretchy, perfect for lounging in. And they have pockets!! I bought my usual size 2 and they are a perfect fit, but could possibly even go a size smaller since they have a great stretch." —MandyLue77Price: $15.54 (originally $25.90; available in sizes M–6X and nine colors) A cotton maxidress for a refreshing and breezy dress to wear when you have to ride your bike from the family country house down the road to the bus station so you can stop your childhood crush from leaving town because you haven't had the chance to tell them, "I've always loved you, too." Promising review: "Love love love this dress! It is flowy and not too cool or too warm for summer wear, even in air conditioning or high heat. Looks adorable and I could see wearing it out to honestly, I got it to be comfortable around home or on live calls for work and feel beautiful." —Angel KatPrice: $99.90 (available in sizes M–6X) A tie-front blouse pretty much the definition of work and play. Throw a cami or shell underneath for a 9-to-5 appropriate top, but once you clock out, ditch the cami and tube top for a gorgeous night-out look. Promising review: "I bought this with the matching wide-leg pants and it looks amazing together? I wear it with a tube top under it for more professional settings and without the tube top and with a purple bra for a [gorgeous] look! Go for it!" —CShampPrice: $27.54 (originally $45.90; available in sizes L–6X and two colors) A smoky pair of cat-eye sunglasses because your peepers are craving a retro pair of shades to dim some of the sun's shine this season. Price: $10.14 (originally $16.90; available in four colors) A crochet maxi cover-up made of a lightweight fabric that will gracefully drape over your body. It would be perfect to use as a cover-up for beach days, but it can also be worn over your bodycon dress or tank and jean combo for some added pizzazz. Promising review: "So freaking gorgeous! Even better in person. I wish it were a dress so I could wear it all the time, lol." —MandaMandaPrice: $20+ (originally $69.90; available sizes M–4X and two colors) A pair of high-rise relaxed denim trousers if you're ready to morph into a '90s R&B *it girl* at a time when baggy jeans and crop tops ruled the world. "Alexa, play 'I Wanna Be Down' by Brandy." Price: $79.90 (available in sizes 10–30 and three lengths) A pair of high-rise shorts in a gritty black because you're not going to turn down your all-black aesthetic simply because the sun decided to turn the heat up. Some reviewers suggest sizing up for a looser fit. Promising review: "These are comfy and fit perfectly. Love the coloring and the look. These will be my go-to shorts for all summer long." —Mandi2025Price: $33.54 (originally $55.90; available in sizes 10–16 and two colors) A casual skater dress when you're unsure what the day will hold and want to throw on something that won't be too dressy if the vibes are casual, but won't make you stand out if the vibes are more polished. We call this an anything dress. Promising review: "Can't wait for warm weather!!! These dresses are so cute and comfortable. It will be cute with little slip-on sneakers for a super casual dressed up a bit with sandals and some jewelry." —MELD68Price: $20+ (originally $55.90; available in sizes M–5X and five colors) A vibrant skort in a 'poppin yellow hue that'll have passerbys yelling, "MUSTAAAAAARD." And if you're wondering if this wonderful piece of athletic wear has a matching top: voila! Promising review: "I love this skort! It is comfortable, has nice flow (doesn't stick to you) and the shorts underneath mean I don't have to worry about flashing anyone." —JemjemjemPrice: $35.94 (originally $59.90; available sizes M–6X and two colors) A pair of white crochet sneakers reviewers love because they're super cozy but also super cute. When you can find a shoe that can do both, never let it go. Promising review: "This white lace is so cute! They match everything and are easy to pull on or off when on the go! Thank you, My Torrid! ❤️ I never have to sacrifice cuteness for comfort. 👍🏻" —LaPalomaDelValle2025Price: $23.94 (originally $39.90; available in sizes 6–13 and two widths)
