Roberta Flack is a Grammy-winning artist and songwriter who has been credited with creating some of the most memorable songs in history. Her music transcends genres, making her one of the few artists to be celebrated by both critics and fans alike. From soulful ballads to funky R&B, Roberta’s musical legacy has captivated generations for over five decades. This article will give readers an overview of Roberta Flack’s impressive career, from her early days as a jazz singer to her rise as a charting pop star.
Growing up in Arlington, Virginia in the 1950s, Roberta was surrounded by music at an early age. She sang gospel music at church with her family on Sundays and began taking piano lessons when she was 15 years old. After graduating high school, she attended Howard University where she studied classical piano while also singing jazz standards around town during college breaks. It wasn’t until 1968 that Roberta released her first album “First Take,” which included hit singles such as “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face.”
Roberta quickly became known for blending elements of folk and soul into her own unique style—one that made her stand out among other female vocalists of the time. In 1973, she earned two Grammys for Best Pop Vocal Performance (for “Killing Me Softly With His Song”) and Album Of The Year (for Killing Me Softly). Since then, Roberta has gone on to release more than 20 albums which have sold millions copies worldwide. Whether you’re familiar with Roberta or just discovering her music now, this article will provide an introduction to some of the iconic hits that helped shape modern American music culture.
Early Life
Roberta Flack was born in Asheville, North Carolina on February 10th, 1937. She started singing early on and took piano lessons at an early age. She graduated from Howard University with a degree in music education before moving to New York City to pursue a career in music.
Roberta quickly found success as a singer-songwriter and became one of the first African American soloists to be featured on the popular TV show “Soul Train” in 1972. Her debut album, First Take, included the hit single “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” which reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song won her two Grammy awards for Record of the Year and Song of the Year in 1973.
She continued to have success throughout her career with several more hits such as “Killing Me Softly With His Song” (1973), “Feel Like Makin’ Love” (1975) and “Back Together Again” (1980). In addition to these singles she also released eight studio albums over her long career that spanned four decades until her retirement in 2004.
Throughout her life she has been honored with numerous awards including induction into Hollywood’s Rockwalk Hall of Fame in 1990 and receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award from BET Music Awards in 2010. Roberta Flack is remembered today as one of the most influential singers of soul and R&B music ever recorded.
Education
Education has been a major part of Roberta Flack’s life since she was a child. She started taking piano lessons at the age of four and graduated with honors from Howard University in Washington D.C., where she majored in music education. After graduating, she moved to New York City to pursue her career as a singer-songwriter.
Roberta also received an honorary doctorate degree from Berklee College of Music for her contribution to popular music, making her one of only two African American women to receive this honor. Her songwriting talent earned her numerous awards such as “Songwriter Of The Year Award” in 1975 by ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers).
Her success is also attributed to the countless hours spent studying musical theory, composition and arrangement which enabled her to write songs that resonated with audiences around the world. Through her dedication and hard work, Roberta has become one of the most influential singers ever recorded in soul and R&B music history.
The legacy Roberta left behind will continue for generations; inspiring new artists who look up to her achievements in both music education and performance alike. In recognition of this, various institutions have honored Roberta for her immense contributions including Hollywood’s Rockwalk Hall of Fame induction in 1990 as well as BET Music Awards Lifetime Achievement Award 2010.
Breakthrough Hit Song
Roberta’s career received a major boost in 1972 when her single, “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This breakthrough hit song was taken from Roberta’s debut album, “First Take,” and earned her two Grammy Awards for Record of The Year and Song Of The Year.
This success was followed by other hits such as “Killing Me Softly With His Song,” which won three more Grammys including Best Pop Vocal Performance Female; and “Feel Like Makin’ Love,” both of which went to number one in the U.S. singles charts. Her impressive body of work has found its way into movies like Forrest Gump (1994), where she sang a cover version of the 1968 classic “Where Is The Love?”
Throughout her illustrious career that spans over five decades, Roberta Flack has released several studio albums comprising soulful ballads and jazz standards along with some contemporary pop tunes too. She continues to tour internationally touching hearts through music and inspiring upcoming generations to pursue their dreams with passion and faith . It is no surprise then that she is hailed as one of the most respected artists in modern music today.
Grammy Awards And Achievements
Throughout her career, Roberta Flack has been recognized for her accomplishments with several awards including 8 Grammy Awards and an induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2019. She received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Soul Train Music Awards in 1994 and was presented with the National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Masters Fellowship in 2011.
In addition to these accolades, Roberta’s music touches people around the world, transcending generations. Her hit singles have been covered by other iconic artists such as Aretha Franklin, Dusty Springfield, Barbra Streisand and many more. Furthermore, she is credited with bringing jazz-influenced soul pop music to mainstream audiences when it wasn’t popular before.
Roberta Flack’s timeless songs are still beloved today; her unique blend of soulful vocals and passionate lyrics continue to move listeners on an emotional level like no other artist does. From ‘Killing Me Softly’ to ‘The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,’ each song reveals a different facet of love that resonates deeply within us all – reminding us why we fell in love with this legendary singer in the first place.
It’s clear that even after five decades since her debut album release, Roberta Flack remains one of modern music’s most respected icons whose creative genius continues to transcend time and inspire new generations.
Unique Musical Style
Roberta Flack’s music is unmistakable and one of a kind. It was her unique style that catapulted her to the forefront of popular music. Her sound blended elements of soul, jazz, blues, gospel, folk, classical and pop together in an effortlessly distinct way. Her sultry yet powerful vocals were the perfect complement to each song she sang – breathing life into every lyric with passion and emotion.
At its core, Roberta’s musical style reflects both traditional influences as well as experimentation. She often played around with tempo and dynamics while staying true to her signature sound throughout all her albums. Additionally, she pushed boundaries by incorporating different genres like country-western or reggae into some of her tunes – creating something truly special for listeners everywhere to enjoy.
The combination of these elements was what made Roberta’s songs so beloved by fans worldwide; it gave them a feeling of familiarity along with new sounds they hadn’t heard before. Furthermore, each track had its own story which touched upon themes such as love, loss and longing – allowing us to connect deeply with our emotions through her artistry.
It’s clear that Roberta Flack has created a timeless legacy within modern music – one that will continue to be remembered long after we’re gone. Through her unique approach to music making, she has inspired countless artists and generations alike who appreciate the power behind meaningful lyrics set against beautiful melodies.
Cultural Impact
Roberta Flack’s music has had a lasting impact on popular culture and the music industry. Her influence can be found in many of today’s top artists, both lyrically and thematically. Many cite her as an inspiration for their own work, from hip-hop to R&B, gospel to rock – she has left her mark across many genres.
Her songs were often covered by other singers or used in various mediums such as movies and television shows. Her iconic hit ‘Killing Me Softly With His Song’ was famously featured in The Fugees’ remake which earned them international acclaim and cemented Roberta’s legacy even further. Additionally, her music has been sampled by several modern musicians including Drake, Kanye West, and Jay Z – proving that the reach of her artistry is still felt decades later.
Not only did Roberta Flack make waves within popular music but also with humanitarian efforts as well. She went on tour with UNICEF during the 1990s in order to bring awareness to global issues like poverty and disease prevention while providing comfort through song at the same time. This showed how powerful music can truly be when it comes to creating positive social change throughout our world.
It’s clear that Roberta Flack has made a significant contribution not just musically but culturally too; she opened up pathways for future generations of women in the industry whilst pushing boundaries within sound itself. Though gone now, her musical spirit will continue to live on forever.
Musical Influences And Collaborations
Building upon her cultural impact, Roberta Flack’s music has also been heavily influenced by various genres and artists. As a young musician growing up in the 1950s and 60s, she was exposed to different styles of jazz, blues, soul, gospel, folk and even classical music – all of which would shape her own sound later on. Not only did these genres influence her vocal style but they were often combined with traditional African rhythms as well; this fusion created something entirely unique that could be identified as distinctly ‘Roberta’.
In addition to her musical influences, Roberta also had some notable collaborations throughout her career. She famously teamed up with Donny Hathaway for their duets album ‘Robert & Donny’ which went on to become one of the most successful recordings of its time. The duo worked together again on two more occasions: firstly in 1972 when they released the single ‘Be Real Black For Me’, then again in 1978 for Hathaway’s spoken-word track titled ‘Someday We’ll All Be Free’.
She also collaborated with other icons such as Aretha Franklin (‘I’m His Only Woman’), Burt Bacharach (‘The Look Of Love’) and Quincy Jones (‘Feel Like Makin’ Love’). These projects further showcased Roberta’s versatility and range within voice – demonstrating how powerful an instrument it can truly be.
Though gone now, Roberta Flack’s legacy lives on through not just her timeless music but through the many collaborations and influences she left behind too. Her artistry will continue to inspire new generations of musicians for years to come.
Albums And Singles Discography
Roberta Flack’s music career is nothing short of prolific – she released an impressive array of albums and singles over the course of her lifetime. Her discography includes both solo works as well as collaborations with other artists, all of which have gone on to become classic hits that are beloved by generations today.
Her first studio album ‘First Take’ was released in 1969 and featured her now-iconic hit single ‘The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face’. The song went on to win three Grammy Awards, making it one of the most successful debut albums ever recorded. It also helped pave the way for more great albums such as ‘Killing Me Softly’, ‘Feel Like Makin’ Love’ and ‘Where Is The Love?’.
In addition to these projects, Roberta also had some charting singles that further established her presence within pop culture. Notable hits include ‘The Closer I Get To You’, ‘Tonight I Celebrate My Love’ and ‘Back Together Again’. These tracks cemented Roberta’s legacy as a singer-songwriter who could touch people deeply with their words and melodies alike.
Throughout her musical journey, Roberta left behind a lasting impression upon soul music; one that will be remembered for years to come. She created something truly unique through blending different genres together – something that resonates even decades later. With this timeless repertoire under her belt, there’s no doubt that Roberta Flack will remain an influential figure within the industry forevermore.
Live Performances
Not only is Roberta Flack’s studio discography impressive, but her live performances were nothing short of extraordinary. She was known for captivating crowds with her stunning vocals and ability to truly connect with the audience – something that made her shows a must-see event.
Flack often paired up with other popular soul artists during these concerts, creating an unforgettable atmosphere in the venue. Her duets with Donny Hathaway have become legendary within the music world; some of their most memorable moments together include ‘Where Is The Love?’ and ‘You Are My Heaven’.
Roberta also had several tours throughout her career which allowed fans from all over the world to experience her talents firsthand. During this time she performed songs such as ‘Killing Me Softly’ and ‘The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face’, both of which remain iconic hits even today. It’s no surprise then why those who attended these events still remember them fondly many years later.
From her first album until now, Roberta Flack has been a true force within music history – one that can never be forgotten or replaced. With timeless classics created through passionate live performances, Roberta will forevermore stand out amongst other legends as a symbol of pure brilliance in songwriting and vocal artistry alike.
Philanthropy And Humanitarianism
Roberta Flack is also known for her generous contributions to philanthropic and humanitarian causes. She has used her platform to support many organizations, from the United Negro College Fund to the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund.
In addition, she often visits schools in disadvantaged areas with the intention of inspiring children through music education. During these trips, Roberta speaks about how important it is for people to stay connected with their creativity – something that she believes can truly change lives.
Her work doesn’t end there though; she’s also been involved with animal rights charities such as The Humane Society and PETA. Through this type of activism, she hopes to create a better world for all living creatures – an admirable goal indeed!
Throughout her career, Roberta Flack has always focused on giving back to society in whatever way possible. From donating money to performing benefit concerts, she makes sure that those who need help receive the aid they deserve. It’s clear then why so many people look up to her as an example of kindness and generosity.
Later Career And Retirement
In the years following her philanthropic work, Roberta Flack continued to use her platform to make a difference in the world. She released many more albums and singles that earned critical acclaim, as well as performed in concerts across the globe. Even after she officially retired from music in 2003, she didn’t stop giving back; for instance, she’s still active with The Humane Society and PETA today.
Her life-long commitment to helping others is certainly admirable. Her generous spirit has touched so many people throughout her career – something that will never be forgotten.
Though Roberta isn’t touring anymore or releasing new records, she continues to inspire through her legacy of kindness and generosity. From donating money to visiting schools in disadvantaged areas, she always finds ways to give back – even after retiring from music! To this day, her story serves as an important reminder of how much we can do just by being kindhearted and compassionate towards those around us.
It’s clear then why Roberta Flack remains one of the most beloved musicians of all time – both for her incredible musical talent and selfless acts of charity.
Legacy In Music History
Roberta Flack’s legacy in music history will never be forgotten. Not only was she an immensely talented singer, songwriter, and musician – her influence as a philanthropist has left an indelible mark on the world. From her charitable efforts to her advocacy for animal rights, Roberta’s commitment to making a positive difference continues to inspire people today.
Her impact can also be felt through the songs that made her famous. Her smooth voice and unique style of soulful jazz-pop helped shape popular music from the 70s onward. She recorded multiple classic hits including ‘Killing Me Softly with His Song’, which won three Grammy Awards, and ‘The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face’, both of which remain staples of modern radio playlists. Even after all these years, Roberta’s timeless tunes continue to touch hearts around the globe.
In addition to being a beloved artist, Flack has been credited with helping launch many careers within the industry – ranging from young talents such as Lauryn Hill to legendary artists like Luther Vandross and Peabo Bryson. Through mentorship and guidance, she paved the way for other African American musicians who were just starting out in their respective fields. This is yet another example of how unselfishness defines Roberta’s character; it goes beyond simply giving money or donating time – by inspiring others she gave them hope too!
It comes as no surprise then why Roberta Flack is held in such high regard amongst fans and critics alike – not just for her incredible musical achievements but also for life lessons learned from her tireless dedication towards making a meaningful contribution to society.
Reception Of Music Critiques
Robert Flack’s music has been critically acclaimed since her first hit singles in the 1970s. She received numerous awards, including three Grammy Awards from ‘Killing Me Softly with His Song’ and two Billboard Music Awards for ‘The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face’. Her songs have become timeless classics that are still played on radio stations around the world today.
Critics appreciated not only Roberta’s musical talent but also her ability to cross genres and collaborate with other artists, such as Lauryn Hill, Luther Vandross, Peabo Bryson and others. This collaboration was praised by many writers who found it inspiring how she could blend different styles of music together into something fresh and unique yet accessible to a wide range of listeners.
In addition to critical acclaim, Roberta’s work has remained influential within the industry too. Many musicians cite her as an influence or mentor – particularly those just starting out their careers – because of her generosity in helping them find success through mentorship and guidance.
It is clear why Roberta Flack is held in high regard all these years later: Not only did she create captivating soulful tunes but she had a genuine commitment towards making a positive difference in society through philanthropy and advocacy. In this way, Roberta continues to inspire people today, proving what can be achieved when we act with selflessness and kindness.
Documentaries, Movies, And Tv Appearances
Roberta Flack’s career has been celebrated and documented in a variety of media. Documentaries about her life have highlighted the influence of her music, as well as her involvement in politics, philanthropy, and activism. Movies such as ‘One Night with Roberta Flack’ and ‘The Best of Roberta Flack’ have shown how she connected with audiences during live performances. In addition to this, television appearances on shows like The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, where she famously sang ‘Killing Me Softly With His Song’, also helped showcase her powerful voice and timeless classics.
Her legacy can also be seen in today’s current music scene; many modern artists cite Roberta as an influence or mentor because of her willingness to help other musicians succeed. She is often remembered for being generous both with her time and energy when it came to mentorship – something that continues to inspire younger generations today.
Finally, Roberta Flack’s impact will forever remain an important part of musical history due to her soulful melodies and unique ability to blend different styles into one captivating piece. Her commitment towards making a positive difference in society through advocacy was truly remarkable too; proving once again why people still talk about Roberta Flack all these years later.
Honors, Awards, And Recognitions
Throughout her career, Roberta Flack has been honored with numerous awards and recognitions. In 1972, she was named Billboard’s Top Pop Female Artist of the Year and in 1975 received a Grammy Award for Album of the Year. That same year, she became one of only two African-American women to ever win that award. She also won four additional Grammys over the course of her career.
In addition to these accolades, Roberta Flack was inducted into both the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2005 and the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2010 – further testament to her incredible contribution to music history. Her influence is still felt by many modern artists today; Alicia Keys performed a tribute to Roberta at The Kennedy Center Honors event in 2013, which earned her a standing ovation from everyone present.
Furthermore, Roberta was given honorary degrees from several universities including Harvard University (1993) and Berklee College of Music (1996). This honor speaks volumes about how highly respected and esteemed she is by fellow musicians as well as higher education institutions. It’s no surprise then why countless fans continue to be captivated by her talent even decades later.
Her contributions have not gone unrecognized either; in 2007 President George W Bush awarded her with the National Medal Of Arts due to ‘her lifetime commitment to expanding musical expression’ – an accomplishment that truly highlighted all that she had achieved throughout her life thus far.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Inspired Roberta Flack To Pursue A Career In Music?
What inspired Roberta Flack to pursue a career in music? This is an interesting question, as it sheds light on what motivated one of the most influential musicians of our time. It’s no surprise that she was able to achieve such success and recognition due to her immense talent and dedication to her craft.
The answer may lie in her childhood experiences growing up in North Carolina, where she had access to gospel, jazz and soul music at an early age. She developed an appreciation for all genres of music which later became the foundation for her own style when she began writing songs. Her parents also encouraged her passion for music by taking her to see live performances whenever they could afford it.
Roberta’s early years were filled with small gigs around town but it wasn’t until 1968 when she signed with Atlantic Records that things really started looking up for her. That same year, she released the hit single “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” which made its way onto the charts and earned her two Grammy awards in 1973—the first African American female artist ever to win them both.
This achievement opened many doors for Roberta as it brought much-needed attention from other labels and cemented her place among some of the greatest artists of our time. From there, Roberta continued to make history with numerous hits over five decades while redefining the R&B genre along the way. All of this speaks volumes about how far sheer dedication can take you if you have a true passion for something like music.
Who Were Some Of Roberta Flack’s Musical Collaborators?
The current H2 is an interesting question to explore: who were some of Roberta Flack’s musical collaborators? Throughout her career, Roberta has been fortunate enough to collaborate with many talented artists.
One of the most notable collaborations was with Donny Hathaway in 1971 for their duet “Where Is The Love”. This song earned them a Grammy award and it still remains one of the most beloved songs from the era. They also worked together on two other albums, Roberta Flack & Donny Hathaway and Extensions Of A Man.
In addition, she collaborated with Maxi Priest on his single “Set The Night To Music” which became a hit worldwide. She also wrote and performed background vocals for various famous tracks such as Aretha Franklin’s “Wholy Holy” and Bill Withers’ “Grandma’s Hands”, among others.
Lastly, she had successful team-ups with Peabo Bryson (the smash hit “Tonight I Celebrate My Love”), Kenny Rogers (“Love Will Turn You Around”), Chaka Khan (“Lover Come Back”) and more recently, John Legend (her cover version of Beyonce’s “Crazy In Love”). These collaborations not only made great music but they have become timeless classics that will be remembered for generations to come.
Clearly, Roberta Flack has enjoyed working alongside some amazing talent during her long and illustrious career in music. Her ability to create beautiful music out of collaboration speaks volumes about her own tremendous talent.
What Were Some Of Roberta Flack’s Most Memorable Live Performances?
Live performances are an important way for musicians to share their art and connect with fans. Roberta Flack is no exception: she has a long history of memorable live shows that have left lasting impressions on her audiences. From festivals to intimate venues, the soulful singer-songwriter always manages to captivate her listeners with her unique style and incredible vocal range.
One of Roberta’s most iconic concerts was at The Bottom Line in New York City in 1974. She played two sets over three nights; the crowd was so moved by her performance they demanded encores each night. Her rendition of “Killing Me Softly With His Song” had such a powerful effect that it brought some audience members to tears.
Roberta also gave many stunning performances at major music festivals around the world including Montreux Jazz Festival (Switzerland), Glastonbury Music Festival (England) and Lollapalooza (U.S.). At these events, she shared the stage with other accomplished artists such as Donny Hathaway, Luther Vandross and Sting. Together, they created unforgettable musical moments which showed off the best of what Roberta could do musically.
The sheer emotionality and poignancy of Roberta’s live performances continue to resonate deeply even today – making them an indelible part of her legacy as one of music’s greatest talents ever. Clearly, when it comes to crafting beautiful memories through song, few can match the brilliance of this R&B icon who will be remembered for generations to come.
How Did Roberta Flack’s Music Reflect The Culture Of The Time?
Music has the power to capture and reflect culture, and Roberta Flack’s music was no exception. During her tenure as a prominent soul singer in the 1970s, she wrote many songs that spoke to larger cultural issues of the time. From civil rights to women’s empowerment, Flack’s sound embodied much more than just entertainment – it also served as a powerful medium for societal change.
Flack used her platform to sing about some of the most pressing issues of her era. In “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” one of her biggest hits from 1972, Flack sang about love and connection in times of social upheaval. Her lyrics expressed a longing for peace and understanding amid a turbulent climate. The song carries an undeniable nostalgia for simpler days filled with hope and promise.
In addition to being highly political, many of Flack’s songs also centered around essential themes such as self-love and acceptance. One example is “Killing Me Softly With His Song” which became an anthem for strength through hardship during the early seventies. She crooned about getting lost in someone else’s melody while finding solace within herself—an inspiring message at any time period but especially relevant given the challenging context in which it was released.
Overall, Roberta Flack’s music served as a representation of the struggles people were facing both individually and collectively during this period in history; sentiments that continue to resonate today long after they first debuted on airwaves nearly fifty years ago. Her words have become part of our collective memory, providing comfort and guidance even when we can’t find them elsewhere.
How Did Roberta Flack’s Music Influence Other Artists?
Music has the power to influence and inspire other artists. This is especially true in the case of Roberta Flack, an iconic American singer-songwriter who achieved tremendous success throughout her career. Her music was deeply rooted in soul, jazz and R&B, providing a landscape of sound that had a profound effect on many emerging musicians at the time. In this article we will explore how Roberta Flack’s music influenced other artists.
Flack’s melodious tunes were often characterized by their laid back grooves and smooth production style which made them easy for listeners to connect with. As such, many contemporary songwriters were inspired to create similar sounds in their own work. For example, Alicia Keys’ hit single ‘Fallin’ is heavily influenced by Flack’s classic track ‘Killing Me Softly With His Song’. Similarly, Mariah Carey’s ‘Hero’ takes cues from another one of Flack’s hits ‘The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face.’
Not only did some prominent singers borrow elements from Flack’s songs but also used her as an inspiration for their lyrics too. Mary J Blige famously referred to herself as a “young Roberta” on her 1996 album Share My World while John Legend incorporated lines from ‘Killing Me Softly’ into his 2017 collaboration with SZA called ‘Broken Clocks’. Such references demonstrate not just the impact that Roberta Flack had on modern music but also how much respect she commanded amongst fellow artists.
With her stylistic blend of genres and heartfelt lyricism it is no surprise why so many people have been drawn towards Roberta Flack’s music over the years; its lasting legacy can be seen through its continued influence on today’s generation of performers. Whether it be borrowing melodies or taking lyrical cues, there is no denying that Roberta Flack left behind a timeless collection of tracks that continue to shape our musical landscape even after all these years.
Conclusion
I’ve been inspired by the life and music of Roberta Flack. She was driven to pursue a career in music from an early age, collaborating with some of the biggest names in the industry. Her live performances were always memorable because she truly connected with her audiences. Throughout her musical career, she managed to capture the spirit of the times which made her work timelessly relevant. The influence that she had on other artists is undeniable – inspiring them to create their own unique soundscapes and take risks within their own artistry.
Roberta Flack’s legacy will continue through her impactful body of work and ability to create something beautiful out of pain and suffering. She has left us with a lasting reminder that no matter what challenges we face, it is possible to make something meaningful out of our experiences if we are willing to put in the effort. I’m grateful for all the lessons that Roberta Flack has taught me, both musically and personally. It is my hope that others can find solace in her music as well so they too can be reminded of how powerful music can be as a conduit for healing and transformation.
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