Renowned singer and pianist Roberta Flack, whose soulful voice and poignant ballads left a lasting legacy in American music, passed away on Monday at the age of 88. Her battle with ALS came to an end as she succumbed to cardiac arrest while en route to a medical facility.

Hailing from Black Mountain, North Carolina, Flack's musical journey began with her exceptional talent as a pianist, leading her to a scholarship at Howard University at a young age. Her career took a turn when she captivated audiences with her performances in clubs, ultimately catching the eye of Atlantic Records. Her debut album "First Take" in 1969 introduced the world to hits like "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face," immortalized in Clint Eastwood's film "Play Misty for Me."

Flack's influence extended beyond her own chart-topping singles like "Killing Me Softly With His Song," and "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face," both winning consecutive Grammy Awards for Record of the Year. Her music transcended genres, resonating with listeners and inspiring a new wave of artists. From The Fugees' rendition of "Killing Me Softly With His Song" to Snoop Dogg and Nate Dogg sampling "Where Is the Love," Flack's songs left a lasting imprint on hip-hop culture.

In the realm of "quiet storm" music, Flack's ability to convey profound emotion through her songs solidified her as an icon in the industry, shaping the sound of generations to come. Her artistry continues to influence countless musicians, ensuring her place as a timeless figure in American music history.