Roberta Flack died on Monday morning (Feb. 24), and the music world came together to mourn the beloved R&B icon.
The “Killing Me Softly” singer’s spokesperson announced the news in a press statement, writing, “We are heartbroken that the glorious Roberta Flack passed away this morning, February 24, 2025. She died peacefully surrounded by her family. Roberta broke boundaries and records. She was also a proud educator.”
Over the course of her illustrious career, Flack scored a total of 18 Hot 100 hits, and notched four albums in the top three of the Billboard 200, as well as more than two dozen charting hits on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. Flack was also nominated for 14 Grammys and won three.
Following the devastating news of Flack’s passing, a number of celebrities took to social media to commemorate the superstar. “Thank You Roberta Flack. Rest In Melody,” Questlove wrote on Instagram alongside a black-and-white photo of Flack.
Red Hot Chili Peppers’ Flea echoed the sentiment, writing on his page, “Roberta Forever.”
“My heart just sank!!” Kelly Rowland wrote on X. “Our Dear Ms.Roberta Flack has ascended beyond but what beauty she has left us with!! THANK YOU for your effortless, most beautiful gift! THANK YOU for being apart of the soundtrack to the most tender moments in my life! So Grateful for you!”
Jennifer Hudson added, “So sad to hear of Roberta Flack’s passing. One of the great soul singers of all time. Rest well, Ms. Flack. Your legacy lives on!!!”
John Lennon’s children, Sean and Julian, also mourned the singer, as she was close to their late father. “Roberta Flack was a very close family friend and neighbor. She was an incredibly kind woman. Uniquely talented. I am eternally grateful to have known her. I’m heart broken she had to leave this earth. Will always love you,” Sean wrote. Julian added, “Roberta Flack was a neighbor of Dad’s in New York City, and a dear friend of our family. Very sad to hear of her passing. Deepest condolences to all who loved her.”
