Join Roberta Flack, the iconic soul and jazz singer renowned for her collaborations with Donny Hathaway, as she reflects on her remarkable journey. Discover how this classical piano prodigy, who made her mark at Howard University, transformed into the Quiet Storm Queen. Flack shares insights on her hit "Killing Me Softly" and the emotional depth of her music. The discussion honors her legacy, highlighting the influence she had on generations of artists in soul, R&B, and jazz.
Roberta Flack's classical training and emotional vocal delivery uniquely blended jazz and soul, influencing countless artists across genres.
Her notable collaborations with Donny Hathaway highlight the contrast in their styles, resulting in timeless classics that resonate with listeners.
Deep dives
Roberta Flack's Musical Influence and Background
Roberta Flack, born in North Carolina in 1937, is recognized as one of the most influential musicians of the late 20th century, blending jazz and soul in a unique way. Her musical journey began in church, where she played the piano at a young age, often performing hymns and connecting with her peers through music. This early experience fostered a natural apprenticeship environment, allowing her to develop skills and compete with other budding artists. Flack's classical training, combined with her love for jazz and soul, shaped her distinctive sound that has left a lasting impact on subsequent generations of musicians.
The Breakthrough Moment
Despite her extensive musical training and experience, Flack's major breakthrough did not occur until she was nearly 30 years old, when she was discovered while playing in a small Georgetown club. Her big break came through pianist Les McCann, who recognized her talent and helped propel her into the spotlight. Within a year of her discovery, Flack made her television debut on The Tonight Show, solidifying her status as a rising star. This rapid ascent highlights the unpredictable nature of the music industry, where perseverance and opportunity often intersect.
Artistry and Style
Roberta Flack is celebrated for her ability to convey deep emotion through her calm and restrained vocal style, capturing the hearts of listeners with her storytelling prowess. Her debut album, 'First Take,' released in 1969, is regarded as one of the greatest albums of its time, featuring subtle yet poignant arrangements that allowed her voice to shine. The album showcases her intricate piano skills, supported by an impressive ensemble of musicians, including renowned bassist Ron Carter. Flack's artistry lies in her mastery of nuance, where the restraint in her performances only enhances the emotional weight of her interpretations.
Enduring Legacy and Collaborations
Flack's collaborations, particularly with Donny Hathaway, are significant milestones in her career, producing timeless classics that resonate deeply with audiences. Their duet album featured tracks that showcase both artists' contrasting styles, with Hathaway's powerful voice complementing Flack's subtle approach. Throughout her career, Flack continued to release successful albums and singles, including her iconic song 'Killing Me Softly,' which further solidified her legacy in the music world. The enduring impact of her work is evident in how her songs have been continually covered and cherished by new generations of artists.
Tune in as we pay tribute to the incomparable Roberta Flack, who we sadly lost last month. From her 1969 debut album First Take (featuring Open Studio artist Ron Carter on bass) to her iconic collaborations with Donny Hathaway – we dissect why what Flack didn’t play was just as important as what she did. We’ll explore how this classical piano prodigy, who entered Howard at 15 and didn’t write her own songs, became the Quiet Storm Queen that influenced every soul, R&B, and jazz singer since. You’ll hear why her understated yet commanding vocals and that classic 70s kick drum made “Killing Me Softly” a hit, grooving duets like “You’ve Got A Friend,” and deep cuts that redefined ballads. Join us to uncover the genius of Roberta Flack.
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OG YHI episode on Donny and Roberta https://youtu.be/78mMufAqZSc
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