An unexpected appearance by Ms. Lauryn Hill and Wyclef Jean was just one of the many riveting moments at the celebration of life honoring the legendary Roberta Flack inside Harlem, New York’s Abyssinian Baptist Church on Monday (March 10). Among the additional stars, executives, friends and family lifting up their voices in tribute to the singer-songwriter-musician-activist were Stevie Wonder, Valerie Simpson, Phylicia Rashad, Dionne Warwick, Alicia Keys, India.Arie, Peabo Bryson, and Clive Davis.
Flack passed away on February 24, 2025, at the age of 88. The ceremony, simply titled “Celebration of Life,” was open to the public and livestreamed on Roberta Flack’s website and on YouTube, bringing together fans and supporters from all over.
Before commencing her heartfelt rendition of Flack’s classic “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” Hill reflected on her late idol with emotion. “We weren’t formally asked to do this because I think they were a little shy in asking us to attend,” Hill began. “So we kind of bum-rushed the service because it really wouldn’t be possible for us to just stand by and not participate.”
The audience responded to Hill’s speech with resounding applause and cheers. “The artistry of Ms. Roberta Flack was beyond trailblazing,” she continued. “Like Nina Simone, she carved out for me a pathway of soulful Black intellectual sublime beauty...” Hill emotionally conveyed how Flack’s legacy is interwoven with themes of resistance and self-expression. “Thank you to our Father in Heaven, to our God on high for blessing and enriching all of our lives with her presence and undeniable gifts. Roberta Flack is legend.”
Following Hill, Wyclef Jean joined her on stage as they launched seamlessly from Hill’s heartfelt tribute to Fugees’ popular hit reinterpretation of Flack’s “Killing Me Softly With His Song.” Stevie Wonder added his magic by playing the harmonica during their performance, eleving the experience with his renowned musical touch.
Wonder himself was also deeply moved during the ceremony and took the opportunity to express his reflections on Flack’s artistry. “The great thing about not having the ability to see with your eyes is the great opportunity of being able to see even more beautifully with your heart,” he shared. He performed his song, “If It’s Magic,” accompanied solely by a harpist and, later, sang “I Can See the Sun” — written especially for Flack.
Valerie Simpson also honored Flack by performing “Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing,” recalling her own experiences with Flack’s unmatched authenticity and talent. Lisa Fischer then captivated the audience with her powerful rendition of “Somewhere (There’s a Place for Us)” from West Side Story.
Phylicia Rashad, who shared her memories of witnessing Flack’s early performances, spoke fondly of how Flack’s unassuming manner belied her immense talent. Flack’s cousin, Carol Flack, and longtime manager, Suzanne Koga, both offered personal anecdotes to enrich the gathering.
Santita Jackson, also present, conveyed the message directly from her father, civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson, reminding those attending of Flack’s unique blend of talent. “Flack was the perfect blend of soul and science; she put her ego to the side and just sang the song,” Jackson noted.
The program included video reflections from notable figures like Clive Davis, who remarked, “There will never be another Roberta Flack,” and letters from former Vice President Kamala Harris and Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. were read aloud. Rev. Al Sharpton delivered the eulogy, highlighting Flack’s significant contributions to music and culture.
“The reason we’re here is because she made a difference,” Sharpton stated, adding, “If Roberta were here tonight, she would tell you, ‘Don’t just praise me, emulate me.’” His words reverberated through the packed church, adding another layer of depth to the celebration of Flack’s life.
During the celebration, flowers adorned the church, filling its historic walls with color and warmth, as memories of Flack filled the air. The community came together not just to mourn, but to joyously honor the legacy of the woman whose music spanned genres and generations.
The congregation also reflected on Flack’s public persona, one marked by grace, resilience, and authenticity. Flack's groundbreaking debut album, First Take, intertwined various genres, including soul, jazz, flamenco, and gospel, establishing her as one of the most versatile musicians of her time.
Flack’s songs, especially “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” and “Killing Me Softly With His Song,” are timeless classics and became cultural touchstones over decades. Her interpretations brought new life to these songs, which captivated listeners and solidified her status as not just a performer but as a revolutionary artist.
Flack’s passing has left behind not just her music but inspirational messages as well. The program included the impactful quote: “Remember: always walk in the light. If you feel like you’re not walking in it, go find it. Love the Light.” This served as a poignant reminder of her spirit and the path she carved, encouraging those she touched to continue pursuing their own light.
Donations made in Flack’s memory can be directed to the Roberta Flack Foundation, ensuring her legacy will assist future generations of artists and musicians dedicated to their craft. Flack’s emotional resonance lives on not just through her music but also through the lives she inspired both personally and artistically.