Roberta Flack, the legendary American singer-songwriter, passed away on 24th February 2025 at the age of 88. Her soulful voice and emotive performances have left an indelible mark on the music world. In honour of her remarkable career, we present a ranking of her top 10 tracks that have resonated with audiences worldwide.
1. “Killing Me Softly with His Song” (1973)
Perhaps Flack’s most iconic track, “Killing Me Softly with His Song” showcases her ability to convey deep emotion through a blend of soul and folk influences. The song earned her a Grammy Award and has been covered by numerous artists, attesting to its enduring appeal.
2. “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” (1972)
Originally written by Ewan MacColl, Flack’s heartfelt rendition brought the song to mainstream success after its feature in Clint Eastwood’s film “Play Misty for Me.” The track won the Grammy Award for Record of the Year, solidifying her status as a leading artist of the era.
3. “Feel Like Makin’ Love” (1974)
This sultry track, penned by Gene McDaniels, became a number one hit on the Billboard Hot 100. Flack’s smooth vocals and the song’s sensual rhythm make it a timeless classic in her repertoire.
4. “Where Is the Love” (1972)
A duet with Donny Hathaway, “Where Is the Love” combines Flack’s soulful voice with Hathaway’s rich tones. The song addresses themes of love and longing, earning them a Grammy Award for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals.
5. “The Closer I Get to You” (1978)
Another memorable duet with Donny Hathaway, this track exemplifies the duo’s harmonious chemistry. The song’s romantic lyrics and smooth melody have made it a favourite among fans.
6. “Tonight, I Celebrate My Love” (1983)
Teaming up with Peabo Bryson, Flack delivers a tender performance in this romantic ballad. The song became a popular choice for weddings and special occasions, highlighting her versatility as an artist.
7. “Back Together Again” (1980)
Reuniting with Donny Hathaway, this upbeat track showcases a funkier side of Flack’s musical style. The song’s energetic rhythm and catchy chorus make it a standout in her discography.
8. “Set the Night to Music” (1991)
In collaboration with reggae artist Maxi Priest, Flack explores a fusion of R&B and reggae influences. The track’s smooth groove and romantic lyrics demonstrate her adaptability to different musical genres.
9. “Oasis” (1988)
The title track from her album “Oasis,” this song reflects Flack’s ability to evolve with contemporary sounds while maintaining her signature emotive delivery.
10. “You’ve Got a Friend” (1971)
Flack’s soulful cover of Carole King’s classic song highlights her talent for interpreting and bringing new depth to well-known tracks.
Roberta Flack’s contributions to music have left an enduring legacy, with her unique voice and emotive performances continuing to inspire artists and listeners alike.
