Stevie Wonder And Rev. Al Sharpton Honor Life Of Roberta Flack

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A public memorial service held at The Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem on Monday (March 10) celebrated the incredible life and legacy of Roberta Flack, the legendary soul, jazz, and gospel artist whose voice captivated the world for decades. The event, open to the public, offered a poignant tribute to the woman behind iconic hits such as “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” and “Killing Me Softly With His Song,” songs that earned her a permanent place in the annals of music history.

The service was a heartfelt gathering that included powerful choir performances, scripture readings, and a moving eulogy delivered by the Rev. Al Sharpton. Among the performers were music icons Stevie Wonder and the Rev. Sharpton himself, who, along with attendees, celebrated the richness of Flack’s music and the soul she infused into every note. Her vocal style, deeply intimate and effortlessly blending elements of soul, jazz, and gospel, made her not only a global star in the 1970s but also an influential figure whose impact continues to resonate.

Flack’s voice was a gift to the world—capturing emotions with such depth that her songs remain timeless. From the tender vulnerability of “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” to the haunting poignancy of “Killing Me Softly,” her music continues to touch generations. In this memorial service, family, friends, and fans gathered to remember not just the artist but the spirit and heart that made her so special.

As the choir lifted their voices and the echoes of her music filled the church, it was clear that Roberta Flack’s legacy lives on. Those in attendance were reminded that music, at its best, transcends time and space—just as Flack’s timeless songs continue to stir the soul.