Photo credit: Jeri Jones photography
(November 14, 2022) She is one of the most beloved singers of her generation, and is loved by millions of fans. And in announcing the sad news that she is suffering from ALS (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, aka Lou Gehrig’s Disease) – leaving her unable to sing and with difficulty speaking – the legendary Roberta Flack has made it clear that this setback will not stop her.
Even as she struggles with the disease, Flack will have a big next 12 months. The documentary, Roberta, will premiere on November 17th in New York at the DOCNYC festival, and will be shown on the American Masters series on PBS in January. In addition, Flack’s children’s book, The Green Piano: How Little Me Found Music, will be published by Random House on January 10. And later in 2023, Rhino Records will issue a commemorative 50th anniversary reissue of Flack’s iconic Killing Me Softly.
(November 14, 2022) She is one of the most beloved singers of her generation, and is loved by millions of fans. And in announcing the sad news that she is suffering from ALS (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, aka Lou Gehrig’s Disease) – leaving her unable to sing and with difficulty speaking – the legendary Roberta Flack has made it clear that this setback will not stop her.
Even as she struggles with the disease, Flack will have a big next 12 months. The documentary, Roberta, will premiere on November 17th in New York at the DOCNYC festival, and will be shown on the American Masters series on PBS in January. In addition, Flack’s children’s book, The Green Piano: How Little Me Found Music, will be published by Random House on January 10. And later in 2023, Rhino Records will issue a commemorative 50th anniversary reissue of Flack’s iconic Killing Me Softly.
The outpouring of support that Flack is receiving is well deserved. Over the two decade period from 1970-1990, Roberta Flack quietly opened doors for a new generation of female singers, making beautiful music but also making history. Her gentle amalgamation of Soul, Gospel and folk, combined with a message of both empowerment and love, created an intelligent, thoughtful pathway for a next generation of singers such as India.Arie and Jill Scott.
The surprise success of her 1970 debut album, First Take, and its #1 hit “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” led to a decade of absolute dominance by Flack – all done her way. She became a pioneering singer, songwriter and producer, often defying the music powerbrokers who attempted to put her in a box as simply a singer. In the process, she became a cultural icon, celebrated for her vision, courage, and, ultimately, her focus on giving back to the community through her Roberta Flack Foundation.
We’re praying for continued health for the 85 year old legend, and that she may continue to spread joy with the world.
By Chris Rizik