Roberta Flack is one of the most accomplished and influential singers and songwriters of the past half-century. With a voice that is both powerful and emotive, Flack has captivated audiences around the world with her soulful ballads and timeless classics. Known for her unique blend of jazz, soul, and pop, Flack has become one of the most iconic and beloved artists in the history of music, earning multiple Grammy Awards and a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
In this article, we’ll be taking a closer look at the 10 best Roberta Flack songs of all time. These songs represent the pinnacle of the singer’s discography, showcasing her ability to craft unforgettable melodies, poignant lyrics, and timeless performances that continue to inspire and move audiences today.
From the soulful power of “Killing Me Softly With His Song” to the haunting beauty of “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” the songs on this list are all masterpieces in their own right, each one showcasing Flack’s unique talent and artistry as a singer and songwriter. Through her music, Flack has explored themes of love, heartbreak, and social justice, giving voice to the experiences and emotions of a generation.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Roberta Flack or a newcomer to her music, this list is sure to offer something for everyone. So sit back, relax, and get ready to immerse yourself in the world of one of the greatest singers and songwriters of all time as we count down the 10 best Roberta Flack songs of her legendary career.
1. The First Time I Ever Saw Your Face (1972)
“The First Time I Ever Saw Your Face” by Roberta Flack is a hauntingly beautiful ballad that captures the essence of falling in love. The song, which was written by folk singer Ewan MacColl, features Flack’s signature soulful vocals accompanied by a gentle acoustic guitar melody. Flack’s voice effortlessly conveys the depth of emotion and wonder that comes with the experience of seeing someone for the first time and feeling an instant connection. The song’s timeless quality has made it a classic, with its poignant lyrics and Flack’s impeccable vocal performance continuing to captivate listeners even decades after its release.
2. Feel Like Makin’ Love (1975)
“Feel Like Makin’ Love” is a soulful and sensual track by American singer Roberta Flack, released in 1975. The song features a smooth, jazzy arrangement, with Flack’s rich, velvety vocals conveying a sense of intimacy and desire. The lyrics describe the intense attraction between two people and the desire to express that love physically. With its sultry melody and romantic lyrics, “Feel Like Makin’ Love” became one of Flack’s biggest hits, cementing her status as one of the most acclaimed and influential vocalists of her generation. The song’s timeless appeal and Flack’s masterful performance make it a classic of the soul and R&B genres.
3. Killing Me Softly with His Song (1973)
“Killing Me Softly with His Song” is a classic ballad by American singer Roberta Flack, released in 1973. The song features a gentle, acoustic arrangement and Flack’s soulful, expressive vocals. The lyrics describe the experience of being moved and inspired by a musician’s performance, and the emotions that arise from hearing a powerful song. With its poignant lyrics and Flack’s masterful performance, “Killing Me Softly with His Song” became a huge commercial success, winning multiple Grammy awards and becoming one of the most enduring and beloved songs of the 1970s. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to Flack’s skill as an interpreter of emotional material, and her ability to connect with listeners on a deep and personal level.
4. Where Is the Love (1972)
“Where Is the Love” is a soulful and socially conscious duet by Roberta Flack and Donny Hathaway, released in 1972. The song features a laid-back groove and Flack and Hathaway’s emotive, heartfelt vocals, which lament the state of the world and call for greater compassion and understanding among people. The lyrics address issues such as war, poverty, and injustice, and urge listeners to come together and work towards a better future. With its powerful message and flawless vocal performances, “Where Is the Love” became a seminal track of the soul and R&B genres, and a beloved classic of the 1970s.
5. Tonight, I Celebrate My Love (1983)
“Tonight, I Celebrate My Love” is a romantic duet by Roberta Flack and Peabo Bryson. The song, which was written by Gerry Goffin and Michael Masser, features Flack and Bryson’s soulful and passionate vocals over a simple yet elegant instrumental arrangement. The lyrics express the joy and excitement of being in love and the desire to celebrate that love in every moment. Flack and Bryson’s voices blend together seamlessly, creating a beautiful and timeless love song that has become a classic of the genre. “Tonight, I Celebrate My Love” remains a beloved favorite among couples and romantics everywhere.
6. The Closer I Get To You (1977)
“The Closer I Get To You” is a soulful and romantic duet by Roberta Flack and Donny Hathaway, released in 1977. The song features a lush arrangement and Flack and Hathaway’s soaring, passionate vocals, which express the intense connection and longing between two people in love. The lyrics describe the joy and comfort that come with being close to a partner, and the sense of completeness that love can bring. With its unforgettable melody and Flack and Hathaway’s stunning vocal performances, “The Closer I Get To You” became a massive hit and a classic of the soul and R&B genres, earning multiple Grammy nominations and enduring as a beloved love song for generations.
7. If I Ever See You Again (1978)
“If I Ever See You Again” is a heart-wrenching ballad by Roberta Flack that expresses the pain of lost love and the longing for a second chance. The song, which was written by Joseph “Joe” Brooks, features Flack’s soulful and emotive vocals over a simple yet powerful instrumental arrangement. The lyrics describe the heartbreak of a failed relationship and the hope of reconciliation. Flack’s passionate performance captures the depth of emotion and vulnerability of the lyrics, making it a standout track in her discography. “If I Ever See You Again” remains a powerful and moving tribute to lost love.
8. Making Love (1982)
“Making Love” is a sensuous and sultry track by American singer Roberta Flack, released in 1982. The song features a smooth and jazzy arrangement, with Flack’s smoky, seductive vocals conveying a sense of intimacy and desire. The lyrics describe the physical and emotional connection between two people making love, and the sense of closeness and ecstasy that comes with it. With its evocative melody and Flack’s masterful performance, “Making Love” showcases her talent for infusing even the most intimate moments with soulful depth and passion, cementing her status as one of the greatest vocalists of her time.
9. Set the Night to Music (1991)
“Set the Night to Music” is a sultry and romantic duet by Roberta Flack and Maxi Priest. The song, which was written by Diane Warren and produced by Nile Rodgers, features Flack and Priest’s smooth and sensuous vocals over a polished and sophisticated instrumental arrangement. The lyrics describe the allure and magic of a romantic evening and the desire to create a memorable and intimate experience. Flack and Priest’s voices blend together effortlessly, creating a dreamy and seductive atmosphere that captures the essence of the song. “Set the Night to Music” remains a standout track in Flack’s later discography.
10. You’ve Got A Friend (1972)
“You’ve Got a Friend” is a classic ballad by American singer Roberta Flack, released in 1972. The song features a simple and gentle arrangement, with Flack’s warm, soothing vocals conveying a message of love and support to a friend in need. The lyrics describe the power of friendship and the comfort that comes from knowing that someone is there for you, no matter what. With its heartfelt lyrics and Flack’s expressive delivery, “You’ve Got a Friend” became a beloved classic of the singer-songwriter genre, earning multiple Grammy nominations and enduring as a timeless anthem of love and friendship.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
