Celebrating the Timeless Talent of Roberta Flack
In the vibrant town of Black Mountain, North Carolina, February heralds not just the cold winter days but also a momentous occasion — the birthday of a local legend, Roberta Flack. While February 10th marks her actual birthdate, we are celebrating all month long the enduring legacy left by a musical icon whose melodies have resonated across generations.
From the hallowed tunes of “Killing Me Softly” to the soulful rendition of “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” Roberta Flack’s music remains an indelible part of our lives, touching hearts and minds globally. It’s a month-long tribute to honor her impact, inspiring us to immerse ourselves in her timeless tunes, embracing the joy and emotions they effortlessly evoke.
One exquisite tribute to her remarkable influence stands tall and proud at @blkmtnbrewing, where artist Scott Nurkin has masterfully crafted a mural on Broadway Street. This stunning artwork encapsulates the essence of Black Mountain’s most illustrious figure, Roberta Flack.
Roberta Cleopatra Flack’s journey began in the heart of Black Mountain, born on February 10, 1937. Her upbringing, rooted in music, was influenced by her father, Laron Flack, a self-taught jazz pianist, and her mother, Irene Flack, a church pianist. Her family moved to Arlington, Virginia, where her musical prowess flourished, embracing genres from R&B and jazz to blues and pop. Her talent blossomed early, winning accolades for her piano performance at just thirteen years old.
Roberta Flack’s musical legacy is incomparable. She stands as the only solo artist to clinch the Grammy Award for Record of the Year in consecutive years for “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” in 1973 and “Killing Me Softly with His Song” in 1974. Her repertoire boasts a string of hits, including soul-stirring collaborations and chart-topping singles, showcasing her musical brilliance and emotional depth.
Beyond the melodies, Flack’s impact extends into humanitarian endeavors. Notably, she founded the Roberta Flack School of Music at the Hyde Leadership Charter School in the Bronx, offering underprivileged students a free, inspiring music education. Her dedication to music and welfare culminated in the formation of The Roberta Flack Foundation, supporting animal welfare and music education.
Her words resonate as powerfully as her music: “Remember: Always walk in the light. And if you feel like you’re not walking in it, go find it. Love the light.” This ethos of positivity and resilience reflects her character and echoes through her philanthropic efforts, including raising awareness and funds for charities during the pandemic.
Today, as we commemorate Roberta Flack’s birthday, let’s celebrate not just the music but the enduring spirit of a woman who illuminated the world through her artistry and compassion. It’s a testament to Black Mountain’s pride and the lasting impact of an extraordinary talent whose melodies continue to enchant and inspire us.
This tribute is a heartfelt appreciation to the NC MUSICIAN MURALS Project and Black Mountain Brewing for bringing this captivating artwork to our community, preserving the memory of a musical luminary whose legacy resonates through the ages.
As we honor Roberta Flack’s birthday, let’s immerse ourselves in her melodies, cherish her contributions, and carry forward her message of light and love through the gift of music.
Biography sourced from http://www.robertaflack.com/.
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