The life of trailblazing songstress and global sensation Roberta Flack to be memorialized at Harlem’s Abyssinian Baptist Church on Monday, March 10th
Rev. Al Sharpton, Founder and President of the National Action Network (NAN), on Monday will eulogize Roberta Flack at a celebration of life for the legendary musician at the Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem. Famed singer-songwriter Valerie Simpson, a longtime friend and collaborator of Flack, will deliver special remarks. Flack, who passed away at the age of 88 on February 24th, was a pivotal vocalist, pianist and songwriter whose soulful ballads and poignant storytelling left an indelible, genre-spanning mark on American music.
Born in Black Mountain, NC on February 10, 1937, and raised in Virginia, Flack possessed a prodigious musical talent from an early age, which eventually secured her a scholarship to Howard University at the age of 15. She skyrocketed to international fame in the 1970s with hits like “The First Time I Ever Saw Your Face” and “Killing Me Softly with His Song,” winning multiple Grammy Awards and solidifying her status among musical royalty. Beyond her chart-topping success, Flack was a dedicated philanthropist and advocate, earning praise from the likes of Rev. Jesse Jackson, President Barack Obama and others.
“I was deeply saddened by the news of the death of Roberta Flack, one of the greatest musicians and songsters of all time,” said Rev. Sharpton. “Her voice and music brought American and Afro American culture and music to another level. She was also a freedom fighter and activist. I first met her when I was 12 years old at a rally for Operation Breadbasket. She was a huge supporter of Operation Breadbasket and Rev. Jesse Jackson. In the last 25 years she always supported and was present for events of National Action Network. May she rest in peace and power; her music will last forever. I’m looking forward to a celebration of life that truly honors someone whose immense accomplishments and impact on the world deserve the highest tribute.”
