Breaking news: Roberta Flack, singer who ruled the charts, dies at 88

Her anthems like "Killing Me Softly" made her one of the most widely heard artists of the 1970s.

View in browser Feb. 24, 2025, 10:56 a.m. ET BREAKING NEWS Harold Filan/Associated Press Roberta Flack, Virtuoso Singer-Pianist Who Ruled the Charts, Dies at 88 With majestic anthems like "Killing Me Softly" and "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face," Flack, a former schoolteacher, became one of the most widely heard artists of the 1970s. Read more Need help? Review our newsletter help page or contact us for assistance. You received this email because you signed up for Breaking News from The New York Times. To stop receiving Breaking News, unsubscribe. To opt out of other promotional emails from The Times, including those regarding The Athletic, manage your email settings. To opt out of updates and offers sent from The Athletic, submit a request. Subscribe to The TimesGet The New York Times app Connect with us on: Change Your EmailPrivacy PolicyContact UsCalifornia Notices The New York Times Company. 620 Eighth Avenue New York, NY 10018