Photo credit: www.rollingstone.com
At a memorial service held in honor of the legendary Roberta Flack, Lauryn Hill expressed the importance of participating in the celebration of Flack’s life. This poignant ceremony took place after the revered singer passed away at the age of 88 in February.
During the emotional gathering at New York’s Abyssinian Baptist Church, Hill took the stage, accompanied by Stevie Wonder on harmonica and Wyclef Jean of the Fugees, to deliver a moving rendition of Flack’s iconic song, “Killing Me Softly With His Song.”
The service, which lasted for four hours, featured tributes from esteemed figures such as Dionne Warwick, Alicia Keys, Clive Davis, Peabo Bryson, and Phylicia Rashad. These speakers shared heartfelt memories and celebrated the remarkable impact Flack had on the music industry and beyond.
Hill made her surprise entrance about three hours into the service, stating that while they weren’t scheduled to perform, it felt crucial for her and the Fugees to pay their respects. “It wouldn’t be possible for us just to stand by and not participate in this home-going service for our beloved Ms. Roberta Flack,” she declared, explaining that they had quickly coordinated their performance in a back row of the church.
Holding back tears, Hill reflected on Flack’s legacy, saying, “Her existence was a form of resistance. I adore Ms. Roberta Flack. Roberta Flack is a legend.” She honored Flack by performing “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” alongside “Killing Me Softly With His Song,” a track that earned the Fugees a Grammy award for Best R&B Performance By A Duo Or Group in 1997.
Trending Stories
Joining the celebration, Stevie Wonder spoke fondly of Flack while performing songs that held special significance for her, including “If It’s Magic” and “I Can See the Sun in Late December,” which he wrote specifically for her. “The great thing about not having the ability to see with your eyes is the great opportunity of being able to even better see with your heart,” Wonder remarked, emphasizing the deep connection he felt with Flack, despite not seeing her visually. “And so I knew how beautiful Roberta was, not seeing her visually but being able to see and feel her heart.”
Concluding his tribute, Wonder poignantly said, “I love you, Roberta. And I will see you,” encapsulating the sentiment of gratitude and love that permeated the memorial for the remarkable artist.
Source
www.rollingstone.com