Those who were not yet alive and aware of music when this song was HUGE simply can not understand its impact. It was INESCAPABLE. Whether you loved it, or hated it, or just didn't care, you could not turn on a radio without hearing it.
I fell in love with this song when it was first introduced in the early 70's! I played it over and over! Then one late afternoon my husband and I went to Disneyland in Orange County Ca.! It was starting to get dark when I heard the song "Killing me Softly with his Song" and I thought someone had put on the record with Roberta Flack at Disneyland! To my utter surprise out on stage there stood the real Roberta Flack singing the song IN PERSON! To this day I cannot believe my great luck at seeing the great Roberta Flack singing this wonderful song LIVE in front of me! I will never forget that day ever! She was wonderful!
I am 59 years old this takes me back getting dressed for school in 1973,i can see me and my brother with our mother, music like this brings tears of joy and pain, my mother was a true queen the way she loved ,nurture and cared for the family i miss her everyday 🖤♾🖤
@@gabrielmota1801 I wasn't born, nor was my mom, when Beethoven was all the rage. I still know Fur Elise. So, what's your point? Still a great song and amazing performance. Your age? Inconsequential here.
Yes in a timeless generation of Love, Truth, Honesty. Men were men & young ladies became wives, Mothers at a frail 18 y.o, Home makers, chefs, & more love, and patience for her children & all with such dignity & eloquence that is so lost today. My parents would never argue or curse in front of us kiids. We only knew our home as a safe home filled with guidance, rules, love & religion. A great time to be born & raised.
This song is powerful, I prefer her version rather than The Fugees, sorry. This is better, this has the soul of a powerful black woman struggling during the 60-70's period. I love it.
of course it's better!! the fugee's cover was absolutely useless and uninteresting! I heard it n the radio this morning and immediately decided to look for the original here on utube..
Funny you said that as I remember when The Fugees version came out and my dad told me the song was ruined. I never realized how right he was until I heard this version.
As a 90s baby I grew up with the Fugees version first. Love me some Fugees. This is beautiful, would I listen to it regularly like the Fugees version? No but that’s just taste this is still amazing and definitely fits the vibe of the lyrics better
Every time I hear "Strumming my pain with his fingers, singing my life with his words ..." in the magnificent voice of Roberta Flack it is just so perfect.
_This song in 1974 won two Grammy Awards! I seriously doubt that Roberta Flack was anything but underrated.. As a teenager this song, and yes, her entire music catalog guided me through my early life. And today, in 2021, I still listen to her lovingly._
Underrated!?!?!?!??!?!?!?! You're listening to the official audio for Roberta Flack - "Killing Me Softly With His Song" from the album 'Killing Me Softly'. This version of "Killing Me Softly With His Song" reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1973 and won the Grammy Awards for Record of the Year and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. THAT MEANS UNDERRATED FOR YOU?
I sadly lost my mom 2020 to covid. This song makes me cry every time I hear it. Single mom with 3 kids no dad to be found. She brought us up right all on her own. Working endless hour to give us the best life she could. I'm tearing as I write this.She loved this song. It brings me back to a great time in my life . Simple times with so much love from my mom. I MISS HER DEARLY !!! LOVE YOU MOM !!!! Thanks for giving a great life. XOXOX
Sorry for your loss. If you look beyond the tears you will find that heaven gained one more beautiful flower for the big bouquet that will be there to greet us years from now. Until then, be joyful and let your heart go on singing the songs that you're fond of, to remember all the good times and make some more with your remaining loved ones. Peace!
I understand you but Dad's love too. Mine told me that when my mom and he were separated he thought of us all, all day long everyday. And that even though they couldn't be together he knew he wasn't complete without us. This is life in Babylon the Great and why Blacks need an Exit strategy. Thousands of years ago God our father gave the order to" COME OUT OF HER ME PEOPLE AND TAKE NOT A PART IN HER SINS".
Do you remember when it was in the charts? It was spring 1973, when you would only have been seven years old. I was 14 at the time and remember it well. It reminds me of the holiday to Clacton I had with my mother and brother in May, as do some other hits from the same time, including Tie a Yellow Ribbon [Dawn], See My Baby Jive [Wizzard] and Power to All Our Friends [Cliff Richard].
@@alancolbo8612 Lori Lieberman wrote it after seeing Don McLean in concert. She recorded in in 1971 and released it in 72. Roberta recorded her version in 72 and released it in 73. It’s a pretty interesting story.
it's so sad how when searching for this song, the new version is all one finds and the new one to me pales in comparison to this absolutely gorgeous sounding song. Roberta Flack will always have a special place with me. Thanks for having this original still out there for us to enjoy and cherish forever.
I first heard this song in January 1973. I was 17 and sitting alone in the NCO Club at Fort Ord, California. I was on my first one day pass going through basic training in the US Army. Every time I hear it I'm flooded by memories. Some good, some not so good. Always powerful.
Thank you for your comment, I just love the memories share when it comes to songs people remember of what impact on them or what they was doing at that time.
She created pure magic with this. Timeless. It was my mum's favourite back in the 70's and I never forgot it. Still play it regularly. Nobody does it better than Roberta.
One of the few people on earth with a perfect voice... I'm 48 my mom is passed and she used to love this song. At first I didn't think much of my mom's music.. but since her passing I've listened to her albums and her taste was impeccable. Roberta Flack was one of her favorites.... Flawless.
People don't realize that, this version isn't even the original one. That one is filled with resentment and will tear your soul apart, the singer has a pure and angelic voice. Roberta Flack has a powerful voice and good techniques with reputation, so people preferred and favored her over the author who wasn't even credited as lyricist. If you're a fan of raw emotions, real pain and a pure way of expressing emotions through singing, she's Lori Lieberman. This version is powerful but will make you feel kind of airy, a little shallow, empty and dead inside. Unlike Lori Lieberman's version, haunting, awry but soulful, like a cup full of water that's ready to spill
Lori rushed the song which made it sound and feel soulless to me. She never left the surface to even get deep enough to properly express any true emotion or pain.
Eulnglidis curbani Museu ofereço essa música a todos os meus alunos a todos os atletas a qual se praticam qualquer tipo de esporte mas que desde que seja um esporte íntegro e honesto a qual não prejudica o corpo pois as formas são perfeitas a qual Deus dá então a forma Deus não quer que perca o que significa amor mantém sempre a forma fazendo um exercício de acordo com cada cada corpo a qual você tenha seja o corpo a quem Deus nos deu ele é perfeito mas nunca esquece a obra qual somos nós ela também sofre consequências o que que é consequências você primeiro tem que procurar um profissional a qual indique os exames periódicos entre a mente corpo e alma por que que eu falo mente corpo e Alma psicologia para casa se houver alguma lesão a qual não tem lesões irreversíveis muita das vezes uma prática errada de um esporte pode lesar uma vida o que significa levar uma vida a qual você queria ter E já não pode mais significa meu amor use a consciência a qual Deus fez a obraconsciência A consciência é quando você vê que você está fazendo uma prática de esporte que é o correto é procurar busca primeiro de um profissional não só de uma de vários para indicar um exercício para você o corpo se adaptar que que é um corpo adaptável é um corpo que se vai adaptar um tipo de exercício a qual esporte você queira praticar mas faça o esporte com consciência mas não faça um esporte com consequência
I tend to agree. There aren't many instances where I'd say that a cover is better than an original, but if there ever was, this is it. All due respect to Lori.
Roberta's performance of this piece is, simply, perfection. When it came out, this song was everywhere...like King's Tapestry album...there was no escaping it. It remains a magical performance to this day.
Strumming my pain with his fingers Singing my life with his words Killing me softly with his song Killing me softly with his song Telling my whole life with his words Killing me softly with his song I heard he sang a good song I heard he had a style And so I came to see him To listen for a while And there he was, this young boy A stranger to my eyes Strumming my pain with his fingers Singing my life with his words Killing me softly with his song Killing me softly with his song Telling my whole life with his words Killing me softly with his song I felt all flushed with fever Embarrassed by the crowd I felt he found my letters And read each one out loud I prayed that he would finish But he just kept right on Strumming my pain with his fingers Singing my life with his words Killing me softly with his song Killing me softly with his song Telling my whole life with his words Killing me softly with his song He sang as if he knew me In all my dark despair And then he looked right through me As if I wasn't there And he just kept on singing Singing clear and strong Strumming my pain with his fingers Singing my life with his words Killing me softly with his song Killing me softly with his song Telling my whole life with his words Killing me softly with his song Strumming my pain with his fingers Singing my life with his words Killing me softly with his song Killing me softly with his song Telling my whole life with his words Killing me softly with his song
He sang as if he knew me Un all my dark depair And the he looked right through me As if wasn't there And he just kept on signing Signing clear and strong
This song captures the power of music to move the heart. With heartfelt lyrics and Flack’s smooth, soulful voice, the song tells a story of deep connection and vulnerability. Its timeless appeal has made it one of the most iconic tracks of its era.
Originally sung in 1972 by Lori Liberman about the first time she heard Don McLean perform his song 'Empty Chairs'. Roberta Flack's version, released one year later, was one hell of a good remake.
Yes, Lori Lieberman went to see Don and she was mostly impressed when he sang the song 'Empty Chairs' though the mistake is that it is thought him singing 'Vincent' was the inspiration. She mentioned liking this song to songwriters Charles Fox and Norman Gimbel and in collaboration with her they wrote this song but sadly she isn't even included in the writing credits. She recorded the song in 1972. It is often though that it was Roberta Flack that saw Don McLean and loved his song 'Vincent'. Roberta recorded this song and is known for it as it was a very successful recording but credit must go to Lori Lieberman for coming up with the idea for the song in the first place and being the first singer to record it.
@@mchammer9184 so WRONG. Lori released the single in 1972 and Perry Como released his COVER in 1973. If math isn't your strong suit, that's a year after the original release.🤦♂
This song took me back to the place where I was fifty years ago, to that particular spot where I heard it for the very first time. What a glorious moment that was.
She is 87 now, born in NC, and won her first 2 Grammys for "The First Time EverI Saw Your Face". We're all indebted to first-time movie director- some dude named Clint Eastwood-for choosing it and paying 2000 to include it in Play Misty For Me, a 1972 movie. God bless Clint and Roberta.
Gosh I love this woman. What a voice and performer. Miss those days so much. Kids today dont know what they missed, and we dont know how good we had it.
One of the most beautiful songs ever written in my humble opinion. I was 15 when this was first released in 1973, this was the song that made me realise the power of great music. God bless you Ms Roberta Flack ❤🇬🇧
Y’all ever had a song speak to your soul? This song describes that feeling! I love this song because it’s so unique, none like it out there! This song will always be more intimate than ANY love song!
I could never get tired of this song from Roberta Flack. I was young, in grade school when I first heard it, the words and melodies would stick to you, it was special! Today, I had this song in my head 'again', and so here I am listening one more time. Roberta's distinctive, awesome voice just perfect for this song, well-matched owning this song to the core. Classic!!!
Soooo beautiful and timeless. Sad to hear she was diagnosed with ALS and will never sing again, but will always sing in our hearts. WE LOVE YOU ROBERTA ❤❤❤❤❤❤
The first time I ever heard this song was 1972 I was 16 I wrote the Lyric.s to my Friend at the time 5 yrs. later we married that was over 40 yrs. ago.
Hi Brenda. This is so beautiful! I am a BBC radio producer making a documentary about this song and I would love to speak to you about how the song featured in your love story. If you'd be up for speaking please reply here and I will follow up with you. Thanks so much. Mair
I listened to this song obsessively as an awkward 5th grader, first on the radio, later on a 45. I didn't understand all of it, but the song tapped into that universal nerve of both wanting someone to acknowledge your pain, but also wanting to have it kept private.
I remember liking the Fugees version when it came out in 1996, back when I was 14. There was a girl I had a massive crush on and I got to the point of developing a good friendship with her brother. When he found out I liked this song he pulled out his father's record collection and played this for me and I fell for it deeply. I appreciate the Fugees for introducing me to Roberta Flack, and to this day if I focus too deeply while listening to this song it will bring me to tears.
Hello! I'm a radio producer making a documentary about this song and what it means to different people. Would love to speak to you if you'd be up for it. Could i send you an email? Thanks very much.
@@mairbosworth9163 I hope you know the story of why it was written, about a singer, Lori Lieberman, who had heard Don McLean performing. He has so many great songs, but people only remember American Pie, and Vincent.
I only know of this song because Spotify recommended it to me, I wish I could have as many good memories connected to it as the people in the comments. Beautiful voice, it feels calming yet sad, nostalgic in some way. Now that I met Roberta’s music, I don’t think I can’t ever forget it... not with such a unique and gorgeous voice.
I only know it from looking up what the newer song sampled and it pulled this up and I 100 percent agree. I’m 29 but I feel like I also lived in the 70’s in a past life. Always felt that way. This song is amazing.
THE FUGEES didn’t sample Roberta’s song. They didn’t use any part of the original recording (what sampling means). The Fugees used a fresh singer, with new musicians, and added a rap .
@voice & guitar project Your comment made me think a bit, of how feelings from the past can’t come back. That’s incredibly sad in a way… but maybe that’s what makes them so beautiful, they are unique and only happen once. Maybe that’s why we cherish them so much, because we can never truly live those wonderful, little moments again. I’m so thankful books, photography, music and videos exist, because even if we can’t live the moments again we can at least have a small piece of who we were again. In my case, now at 22 y.o, the music that brings me back to those days without worries is of course different; Ciara’s I found myself, Little Wonders by Rob Thomas, the entire Wall-e soundtrack, Through the Rain by Mariah Carey… but Killing me Softly is now part of my 20s memories. In a way, I’m excited for the future, because I now wonder what memories I’ll have with this song, the dreams I’ll dream while listening to it in a few years, the bitter nostalgia. Times won’t come back, so we better make some good memories with the music we listen! So we can look back fondly and remember with a smile ^^
Music is like a key that opens up the lock protecting our soul from forces that fill the universe, and tell us all about our inner being. This song is about that.
This beautiful and classic song was released in 1973 by the very pretty and very talented singer Roberta Flack! This classic song truly belongs to Roberta Flack! I love this song! I was born in 1978. Thank you for posting and sharing this!
Such a beautiful song , and sung so perfectly with Roberta Flack's heavenly voice !!! This song still amazes me after nearly fifty years and Roberta deserves the awards ❤👍
One of the most BEAUTIFUL, HEARTFELT, ROMANTIC songs of ALL TIME and while I do like The FUGEES version it pales in comparison to this soul classic from the one and only "ROBERTA FLACK"👏👏👏
Yes ! i remember in 1973 ! i was 17 and was in jail when the radio was playing that ! But i came here to see if it was an older song ! So i see that it s indeed 1973 ! brings back a mixed feeling yet a clear place in time ! Thanks Rhino !🤔
I have a theory that whatever version you hear first is the preferred version. I heard Lauren’s version first and prefer it although I love both same with Giving him something he can feel I don’t care for Arethas version which I heard later.
Love this song!!! I learned that sometimes the songs people claim for themselves are actually full of crap and actually nothing like them at all. That’s what this song taught me.
im 65yr old .bought this when it first hit the charts. always liked this song these days it reminds me of the younger men i used to date. live alone with my cat now.
This song is Killing me Softly every time I hear it. From 1971 until now it has always brought me great tears of joy like no other. I was just waking up to the world when this song came out. This was after Vietnam and some troubles and helped me see the beauty in love and the song itself. I survived for 55 more years because of music and messages like this. Still listening, Still loving it!!!!!
Thank you for your service. As long as you know this song was a total rip-off of Leon Russell's 'Superstar' written in 1969. A Cherokee American Indian lady named Rita Coolidge first sang this. How it ended up an anthem for others, only God and criminals know.
Hi Michael. Hope you're well! I'm a BBC radio producer making a documentary about this song and what it means to people. Could I possibly send you an email? If you reply here I'll see it and follow up. Thanks very much.
@@mgraves9484 God almighty!! Did not know that. Now you are really bringing back the alt of the earth 60's with Leon Russell and Rita Coolidge.. They don't come better than Rita Coolidge. Thanks so much for the info.
Roberta in all her LOVELINESS...she has such BEAUTIFUL VOCALS on this CLASSIC song. A MUSICAL GENIUS she will always be, there will never be another musician like Roberta....VERY CLASSY LADY!!😊
Woke up this morning with THIS SONG echoing in my head.....literally!!! I don't know why, but old songs just pop into my head....then I have to figure out why they haunt me!!! LOL
This is the best it will ever be, some songs were made for certain people, and this song fits Roberta Flack to the soul, well done and thank you for expressing your feelings in this song , WELL DONE 👍
Charles Fox, the Grammy winning composer of "Killing Me Softly", is the subject of a new fantastic documentary you can now rent called "Killing Me Softly With His Songs". After writing 100s of film scores, TV themes and other hit songs like Jim Croce's "I Got A Name" and Barry Manilow's "Ready To Take A Chance Again", Fox got a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame just this past week.
Those who were not yet alive and aware of music when this song was HUGE simply can not understand its impact. It was INESCAPABLE. Whether you loved it, or hated it, or just didn't care, you could not turn on a radio without hearing it.
Yes! It has been a solid hit right from the day one!!
I was born much later but it strikes me with emotion anyway.
true
As a '99 baby, I find hiraeth in 70s music. So much life was made in that decade; I can only imagine the thrill of discovering music at that time.
Thank you for sharing! That powerful 🙌
I fell in love with this song when it was first introduced in the early 70's! I played it over and over! Then one late afternoon my husband and I went to Disneyland in Orange County Ca.! It was starting to get dark when I heard the song "Killing me Softly with his Song" and I thought someone had put on the record with Roberta Flack at Disneyland! To my utter surprise out on stage there stood the real Roberta Flack singing the song IN PERSON! To this day I cannot believe my great luck at seeing the great Roberta Flack singing this wonderful song LIVE in front of me! I will never forget that day ever! She was wonderful!
That must be such a wonderful memory. How special :)
Diane so cool. It’s a great song done so well by Roberta.
@@cantonracer1 It was weird and great!
@@ernjuani I still love this song!
touching :)
This song is timeless and clean, no hype verses. There’s No need for it. The song created its own beauty..
gotta hear That Original Vickie Lawrance Version Robertas is better but its good.
Very well said. It's own beauty
I'm 82 years young.I have always loved this by Roberta flack.
God bless you, and may you see many more.💕🙏 love and prayers to you
So you were 32 years old when you first listened to this song?
Rip
Jenny, may God bless and keep you always, and may you live to see many more 💕🙏
Me too...and I'll be 82 soon...so the calendar says.
No one can sing this like Roberta Flack. So smooth.
To jest PRAWDA
And her guitarist Eric Gale was legendary! It was as if he was mentally synced to her Not leading or following, just pure incredible!
Frank Sinatra também é fantástico
Amen so true!
40年余り昔の二十歳の時、初めて耳にした私は鳥肌が立つような感動を味わいました。
素敵なメロディ、彼女の味わいある歌声、最高の一曲です。
素敵ですよね～❤
ネスカフェのCMで心奪われました😅
I am 59 years old this takes me back getting dressed for school in 1973,i can see me and my brother with our mother, music like this brings tears of joy and pain, my mother was a true queen the way she loved ,nurture and cared for the family i miss her everyday 🖤♾🖤
She was surely a great lay
You're so lucky. Not everyone can have a good memory of their mother.
Damn my mom wasn’t even born during that time
@@gabrielmota1801 I wasn't born, nor was my mom, when Beethoven was all the rage. I still know Fur Elise. So, what's your point? Still a great song and amazing performance. Your age? Inconsequential here.
@@iamlastevns well damn this is why I don’t comment anymore bruh
One of the greatest songs ever written.
Lori
Yes in a timeless generation of Love, Truth, Honesty. Men were men & young ladies became wives, Mothers at a frail 18 y.o, Home makers, chefs, & more love, and patience for her children & all with such dignity & eloquence that is so lost today. My parents would never argue or curse in front of us kiids. We only knew our home as a safe home filled with guidance, rules, love & religion. A great time to be born & raised.
It reminds me of Jesus Our Saviour waking us up to Who He is
Jesus song of Love to each that will hear the music and she does an amazing awakening child
Facts💯
Timeless song. Roberta's rendition is just flawless.
Every other version after Roberta needs to be trashed
Perry's version is a close 2nd to this masterpiece!
Sitting in my dining room with a cup of coffee and Roberta Flack this morning before sunup started my day beautifully.
Roberta's cover is not bad but try the original.
@@theonemodifier that’s a little disrespectful to the original.
The clarity in her voice is amazingly pure.
This song is powerful, I prefer her version rather than The Fugees, sorry. This is better, this has the soul of a powerful black woman struggling during the 60-70's period. I love it.
of course it's better!! the fugee's cover was absolutely useless and uninteresting! I heard it n the radio this morning and immediately decided to look for the original here on utube..
Funny you said that as I remember when The Fugees version came out and my dad told me the song was ruined. I never realized how right he was until I heard this version.
Totally agree 😉
this song is love letter to bob dylan...fugee's cover kinda loses the context of the social unrest during that time.
As a 90s baby I grew up with the Fugees version first. Love me some Fugees. This is beautiful, would I listen to it regularly like the Fugees version? No but that’s just taste this is still amazing and definitely fits the vibe of the lyrics better
Every time I hear "Strumming my pain with his fingers, singing my life with his words ..." in the magnificent voice of Roberta Flack it is just so perfect.
Well, for 50 years I thought it was strumming my face with his fingers.
Live & learn.
Oh yeah
@@kurtissjacobs5618 isn't it?
@@kurtissjacobs5618 listen to this song and it's lyrics
Roberta vc shou todos países excelente música, toquei essa música várias vezes vários shows que fiz
Roberta Flack was such an underrated vocalist that was exceptional
Underrated by whom?
Underrated? She was world-famous.
_This song in 1974 won two Grammy Awards! I seriously doubt that Roberta Flack was anything but underrated.. As a teenager this song, and yes, her entire music catalog guided me through my early life. And today, in 2021, I still listen to her lovingly._
I never thought under rated. With those vocals? Never!
Underrated!?!?!?!??!?!?!?!
You're listening to the official audio for Roberta Flack - "Killing Me Softly With His Song" from the album 'Killing Me Softly'. This version of "Killing Me Softly With His Song" reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1973 and won the Grammy Awards for Record of the Year and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.
THAT MEANS UNDERRATED FOR YOU?
I sadly lost my mom 2020 to covid. This song makes me cry every time I hear it. Single mom with 3 kids no dad to be found. She brought us up right all on her own. Working endless hour to give us the best life she could. I'm tearing as I write this.She loved this song. It brings me back to a great time in my life . Simple times with so much love from my mom. I MISS HER DEARLY !!! LOVE YOU MOM !!!! Thanks for giving a great life. XOXOX
Sorry for your loss.
If you look beyond the tears you will find that heaven gained one more beautiful flower for the big bouquet that will be there to greet us years from now.
Until then, be joyful and let your heart go on singing the songs that you're fond of, to remember all the good times and make some more with your remaining loved ones. Peace!
@@DavidMartin-qt1fx thank you so much for your kind words. God bless you
God bless your moms soul . She musta been one great mom 🙏🙏🙏🙏
@@yukizorcu4637 I was blessed. Thank you
I understand you but Dad's love too. Mine told me that when my mom and he were separated he thought of us all, all day long everyday. And that even though they couldn't be together he knew he wasn't complete without us. This is life in Babylon the Great and why Blacks need an Exit strategy. Thousands of years ago God our father gave the order to" COME OUT OF HER ME PEOPLE AND TAKE NOT A PART IN HER SINS".
One of the most beautiful songs ever done, 58 years old and still loving it!!
Do you remember when it was in the charts? It was spring 1973, when you would only have been seven years old. I was 14 at the time and remember it well. It reminds me of the holiday to Clacton I had with my mother and brother in May, as do some other hits from the same time, including Tie a Yellow Ribbon [Dawn], See My Baby Jive [Wizzard] and Power to All Our Friends [Cliff Richard].
One of the greatest female singers ever
Without a doubt.
Both Roberta's and The Fugees are great but Roberta's is my favourite ❤
It is nevertheless sad to see how the original author, lori lieberman, is still so neglected and often forgotten
Mine too!!!
@@MrAlsgaard How is Lori Lieberman the original author?
I have to agree. Both roberta flacks version as well as Frank Sinatra's versions. Both are way better than the fugees version
@@alancolbo8612 Lori Lieberman wrote it after seeing Don McLean in concert. She recorded in in 1971 and released it in 72. Roberta recorded her version in 72 and released it in 73. It’s a pretty interesting story.
it's so sad how when searching for this song, the new version is all one finds and the new one to me pales in comparison to this absolutely gorgeous sounding song.
Roberta Flack will always have a special place with me.
Thanks for having this original still out there for us to enjoy and cherish forever.
Poor kids
Just search Roberta Flack songs. That's what I did
@@johnfortino9455 I would check out Lori Lieberman
Original? Roberta's version is a cover.
This is a cover, the fugees came out first
Gramps used to play this back home, this is true music. The 60-90’s quality of music will never be topped.
Ur ABSOLUTELY RIGHT, I'M LISTENING TO IT RIGHT NOW ❤🥲
Taylor Swift ******
I first heard this song in January 1973. I was 17 and sitting alone in the NCO Club at Fort Ord, California. I was on my first one day pass going through basic training in the US Army. Every time I hear it I'm flooded by memories. Some good, some not so good. Always powerful.
Fort Ord Ca. 1972 ✌Thanks 💯
so cool omh
Thank you for your comment, I just love the memories share when it comes to songs people remember of what impact on them or what they was doing at that time.
She created pure magic with this. Timeless. It was my mum's favourite back in the 70's and I never forgot it. Still play it regularly. Nobody does it better than Roberta.
Such a beautiful voice. Very few female singers can compare.
No filters no fillers pure ass Roberta. Amazing!
Yes indeed.
One of the few people on earth with a perfect voice... I'm 48 my mom is passed and she used to love this song. At first I didn't think much of my mom's music.. but since her passing I've listened to her albums and her taste was impeccable. Roberta Flack was one of her favorites.... Flawless.
by far the best version of this song
There really is no other.
One of America's 'BEST' songs ever....Top 10!
I agree ❤❤❤❤❤❤
People don't realize that, this version isn't even the original one. That one is filled with resentment and will tear your soul apart, the singer has a pure and angelic voice. Roberta Flack has a powerful voice and good techniques with reputation, so people preferred and favored her over the author who wasn't even credited as lyricist. If you're a fan of raw emotions, real pain and a pure way of expressing emotions through singing, she's Lori Lieberman. This version is powerful but will make you feel kind of airy, a little shallow, empty and dead inside. Unlike Lori Lieberman's version, haunting, awry but soulful, like a cup full of water that's ready to spill
Oh shut. Up. That’s ridiculous.
If Bob Dylan can admit Hendrick did it better so can Lori
Lori rushed the song which made it sound and feel soulless to me. She never left the surface to even get deep enough to properly express any true emotion or pain.
Roberta’s “oooh, oooh, oooh, ahhh, ahhh, ahhh, ah, ah, ah, ahhh, lah, lah, lah, lah, lah, lah, ahhh, ahhh, ah, ahha, lahahhh.” Is her expressing the pain and emotion his strumming.
At 78 years young still listening in 2024
Vamos a luta!
Eulnglidis curbani
Museu ofereço essa música a todos os meus alunos a todos os atletas a qual se praticam qualquer tipo de esporte mas que desde que seja um esporte íntegro e honesto a qual não prejudica o corpo pois as formas são perfeitas a qual Deus dá então a forma Deus não quer que perca o que significa amor mantém sempre a forma fazendo um exercício de acordo com cada cada corpo a qual você tenha seja o corpo a quem Deus nos deu ele é perfeito mas nunca esquece a obra qual somos nós ela também sofre consequências o que que é consequências você primeiro tem que procurar um profissional a qual indique os exames periódicos entre a mente corpo e alma por que que eu falo mente corpo e Alma psicologia para casa se houver alguma lesão a qual não tem lesões irreversíveis muita das vezes uma prática errada de um esporte pode lesar uma vida o que significa levar uma vida a qual você queria ter E já não pode mais significa meu amor use a consciência a qual Deus fez a obraconsciência A consciência é quando você vê que você está fazendo uma prática de esporte que é o correto é procurar busca primeiro de um profissional não só de uma de vários para indicar um exercício para você o corpo se adaptar que que é um corpo adaptável é um corpo que se vai adaptar um tipo de exercício a qual esporte você queira praticar mas faça o esporte com consciência mas não faça um esporte com consequência
I have heard a plethora of really nice renditions of this song, but no one sings it better than the legendary Queen Roberta Flack. 👏🏾🙌🏽
I tend to agree. There aren't many instances where I'd say that a cover is better than an original, but if there ever was, this is it. All due respect to Lori.
Roberta's performance of this piece is, simply, perfection. When it came out, this song was everywhere...like King's Tapestry album...there was no escaping it. It remains a magical performance to this day.
Strumming my pain with his fingers
Singing my life with his words
Killing me softly with his song
Killing me softly with his song
Telling my whole life with his words
Killing me softly with his song
I heard he sang a good song
I heard he had a style
And so I came to see him
To listen for a while
And there he was, this young boy
A stranger to my eyes
Strumming my pain with his fingers
Singing my life with his words
Killing me softly with his song
Killing me softly with his song
Telling my whole life with his words
Killing me softly with his song
I felt all flushed with fever
Embarrassed by the crowd
I felt he found my letters
And read each one out loud
I prayed that he would finish
But he just kept right on
Strumming my pain with his fingers
Singing my life with his words
Killing me softly with his song
Killing me softly with his song
Telling my whole life with his words
Killing me softly with his song
He sang as if he knew me
In all my dark despair
And then he looked right through me
As if I wasn't there
And he just kept on singing
Singing clear and strong
Strumming my pain with his fingers
Singing my life with his words
Killing me softly with his song
Killing me softly with his song
Telling my whole life with his words
Killing me softly with his song
Strumming my pain with his fingers
Singing my life with his words
Killing me softly with his song
Killing me softly with his song
Telling my whole life with his words
Killing me softly with his song
So cool
Beautiful !!
He sang as if he knew me
Un all my dark depair
And the he looked right through me
As if wasn't there
And he just kept on signing
Signing clear and strong
Thanks for the lyrics. I was trying to sing this song last night and could not remember all the words only mostly the chorus
I’m about to start singing with this song!!!
This the one to practice and perfect!!!
🤓
NO OTHERS have any business performing this song ... She is the Queen of it. Period.
😂😂 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
I woke up with this song in my head. It's absolutely beautiful. This is the definitive version and nobody did it better.
I mean I'd say the original author would at least have the right to perform it, no?
This song captures the power of music to move the heart. With heartfelt lyrics and Flack’s smooth, soulful voice, the song tells a story of deep connection and vulnerability. Its timeless appeal has made it one of the most iconic tracks of its era.
Originally sung in 1972 by Lori Liberman about the first time she heard Don McLean perform his song 'Empty Chairs'. Roberta Flack's version, released one year later, was one hell of a good remake.
Apparently someone told Don McLean "Killing Me Softly" was written about him.
Yes, Lori Lieberman went to see Don and she was mostly impressed when he sang the song 'Empty Chairs' though the mistake is that it is thought him singing 'Vincent' was the inspiration. She mentioned liking this song to songwriters Charles Fox and Norman Gimbel and in collaboration with her they wrote this song but sadly she isn't even included in the writing credits. She recorded the song in 1972. It is often though that it was Roberta Flack that saw Don McLean and loved his song 'Vincent'. Roberta recorded this song and is known for it as it was a very successful recording but credit must go to Lori Lieberman for coming up with the idea for the song in the first place and being the first singer to record it.
@@PAW_21 It is a shame that even now, 51 years after Lori's beautiful original, almost everyone still give credit to Roberta Flack.
@@sharonjensen3016Nope…This song was about girl and originally performed by Perry Como…”Killing Me Softly With HER Song”
@@mchammer9184 so WRONG. Lori released the single in 1972 and Perry Como released his COVER in 1973. If math isn't your strong suit, that's a year after the original release.🤦♂
This song took me back to the place where I was fifty years ago, to that particular spot where I heard it for the very first time. What a glorious moment that was.
The vulnerability and softness of her voice really match the lyrices. Just beautiful and the only version I love.
She is 87 now, born in NC, and won her first 2 Grammys for "The First Time EverI Saw Your Face". We're all indebted to first-time movie director- some dude named Clint Eastwood-for choosing it and paying 2000 to include it in Play Misty For Me, a 1972 movie. God bless Clint and Roberta.
I just can't imagine someone else singing this song. Roberta turned it into a classic.
The most beautiful version of the most beautiful song of the last 50 years
It makes the Fugees look like poop.
The Greatest Roberta Flack Song Ever PERIOD!!!!!!
She did sing it the best but Lori Lieberman wrote it which I never knew until today.
I have to agree with that sentiment 1000%. She is brilliant, she has such a captivating voice. And yes, after many years still has the same impact.
@@billwatt2528So true
Gosh I love this woman. What a voice and performer. Miss those days so much. Kids today dont know what they missed, and we dont know how good we had it.
This is when singers could truly sing.
No one can top this version of killing me softly by the great Roberta Flack!
One of the most beautiful songs ever written in my humble opinion.
I was 15 when this was first released in 1973, this was the song that made me realise the power of great music.
God bless you Ms Roberta Flack ❤🇬🇧
Thanks to Lori Lieberman❤
@@shodri92 definitely 👍🏻
I guess you can say, roberta really... Killed me softly with her song ;)
@Hatsune Miku , yes miku, yes.
John sure did and then.........
Yesss, Roberta Flack's version is the one to listen to. 👍😏
Try the original version, it's great.
Isn't this the original tho
@@zaynmalik-yj8ir Fugees as well as Roberta Flack did covers. The original is by Lori Lieberman, one year before Roberta Flack.
@@Marco-ns7ih Yeah, sorry I wasn't aware that this was just a cover hehe
@@zaynmalik-yj8ir No need to say sorry😀. Most people think that Roberta's covers are originals.
Y’all ever had a song speak to your soul?
This song describes that feeling!
I love this song because it’s so unique, none like it out there!
This song will always be more intimate than ANY love song!
I've loved this song, and this arrangement, since my childhood... in the 1970s. Several other versions are great, too, but this one stays with me.
What a memory her voice's so sweet, the song is Beautiful and She 's so Pretty, I Love Her
Best version.
I could never get tired of this song from Roberta Flack. I was young, in grade school when I first heard it, the words and melodies would stick to you, it was special! Today, I had this song in my head 'again', and so here I am listening one more time. Roberta's distinctive, awesome voice just perfect for this song, well-matched owning this song to the core. Classic!!!
Quite possibly the most beautiful song ever made......
I just finished reading ks and... this song is killing me softly rn.
Same
Same I just cant 😔😔
I hadn't finished it yet I honestly can't it really HURTS my heart every time I read it
im dead too :D
What's ks?
Soooo beautiful and timeless. Sad to hear she was diagnosed with ALS and will never sing again, but will always sing in our hearts. WE LOVE YOU ROBERTA ❤❤❤❤❤❤
Oh no, she's up there is one of my favorites what soul and tone. Warms the heart
Stunning! There are no words for this artist Roberta Flack and the way she delivers the lyrics
Hello Sheila
How are you doing today?
The first time I ever heard this song was 1972 I was 16 I wrote the Lyric.s to my Friend at the time 5 yrs. later we married that was over 40 yrs. ago.
Hi Brenda. This is so beautiful! I am a BBC radio producer making a documentary about this song and I would love to speak to you about how the song featured in your love story. If you'd be up for speaking please reply here and I will follow up with you. Thanks so much. Mair
Beautiful song. I have been singing along to this song for 45 years. It still moves me.
Helped me through a very rough patch.. One of the most powerful, haunting, beautiful, moving songs ever made.
This song evokes something different than the remake. I prefer the remake, but I will listen to this for a more chilled softer environment.
I listened to this song obsessively as an awkward 5th grader, first on the radio, later on a 45. I didn't understand all of it, but the song tapped into that universal nerve of both wanting someone to acknowledge your pain, but also wanting to have it kept private.
I remember liking the Fugees version when it came out in 1996, back when I was 14. There was a girl I had a massive crush on and I got to the point of developing a good friendship with her brother. When he found out I liked this song he pulled out his father's record collection and played this for me and I fell for it deeply. I appreciate the Fugees for introducing me to Roberta Flack, and to this day if I focus too deeply while listening to this song it will bring me to tears.
Hello! I'm a radio producer making a documentary about this song and what it means to different people. Would love to speak to you if you'd be up for it. Could i send you an email? Thanks very much.
@@mairbosworth9163 I hope you know the story of why it was written, about a singer, Lori Lieberman, who had heard Don McLean performing. He has so many great songs, but people only remember American Pie, and Vincent.
Magnificent, flawless rendition. Nobody else even comes close.
So true!!!
Well said ❤ this is it🇨🇦
I only know of this song because Spotify recommended it to me, I wish I could have as many good memories connected to it as the people in the comments.
Beautiful voice, it feels calming yet sad, nostalgic in some way. Now that I met Roberta’s music, I don’t think I can’t ever forget it... not with such a unique and gorgeous voice.
I only know it from looking up what the newer song sampled and it pulled this up and I 100 percent agree. I’m 29 but I feel like I also lived in the 70’s in a past life. Always felt that way. This song is amazing.
THE FUGEES didn’t sample Roberta’s song. They didn’t use any part of the original recording (what sampling means). The Fugees used a fresh singer, with new musicians, and added a rap
.
EARLY 70s MUSIC IS MELLOW. I prefer the 90s version, because I like the upbeat hiphop sound
.
@voice & guitar project Your comment made me think a bit, of how feelings from the past can’t come back. That’s incredibly sad in a way… but maybe that’s what makes them so beautiful, they are unique and only happen once.
Maybe that’s why we cherish them so much, because we can never truly live those wonderful, little moments again. I’m so thankful books, photography, music and videos exist, because even if we can’t live the moments again we can at least have a small piece of who we were again.
In my case, now at 22 y.o, the music that brings me back to those days without worries is of course different; Ciara’s I found myself, Little Wonders by Rob Thomas, the entire Wall-e soundtrack, Through the Rain by Mariah Carey… but Killing me Softly is now part of my 20s memories.
In a way, I’m excited for the future, because I now wonder what memories I’ll have with this song, the dreams I’ll dream while listening to it in a few years, the bitter nostalgia.
Times won’t come back, so we better make some good memories with the music we listen! So we can look back fondly and remember with a smile ^^
Music is like a key that opens up the lock protecting our soul from forces that fill the universe, and tell us all about our inner being. This song is about that.
I've loved this song since 1973! ❤️
Killed her softly with my bullshit. She wisely divorced me.
Same here💖😼
Even since my dad showed this to me, I have loved it so much. She is one of my favorite singers ever!
This song melted my emotions back in 1973 with Roberta Flack singing.
Psalms 40:3 “And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the LORD.”
This beautiful and classic song was released in 1973 by the very pretty and very talented singer Roberta Flack! This classic song truly belongs to Roberta Flack! I love this song! I was born in 1978. Thank you for posting and sharing this!
The beautiful original version was released in 1972 by Lori Lieberman who also co-wrote the song.
A timeless classic sung by one best singers to ever grace a stage, Miss Roberta Flack.
Such a beautiful song , and sung so perfectly with Roberta Flack's heavenly voice !!! This song still amazes me after nearly fifty years and Roberta deserves the awards ❤👍
One of the most BEAUTIFUL, HEARTFELT, ROMANTIC songs of ALL TIME and while I do like The FUGEES version it pales in comparison to this soul classic from the one and only "ROBERTA FLACK"👏👏👏
My friend Stewart said this song reminded of himself. We both heard it in 1973. RIP dear friend.
Yes ! i remember in 1973 ! i was 17 and was in jail when the radio was playing that ! But i came here to see if it was an older song ! So i see that it s indeed 1973 ! brings back a mixed feeling yet a clear place in time ! Thanks Rhino !🤔
I was 12 when this was a hit on the radio that summer, such a beautiful melody and lyrics and she gives it life beautifully.
holy shit... Ron Carter is killing me softly with his insanely groovy bass lines in this one
I have loved the song for over 50yrs, my husband and I used to dance to this beautiful heart breaking 💔 song. Nobody can sing it like Roberta 👍 🎶
Her version can't be beat.I've listened to it repeatedly for 51 years. It spoke(and does now) to my heart.
My all time favorite song, the first one to give me goosebumps when I was 12 years old in 73
I remember hearing this song from a young boy and felt in love with it.
I have a theory that whatever version you hear first is the preferred version. I heard Lauren’s version first and prefer it although I love both same with Giving him something he can feel I don’t care for Arethas version which I heard later.
The fugees didn't do this song justice. Roberta's version is king
Love this song!!! I learned that sometimes the songs people claim for themselves are actually full of crap and actually nothing like them at all. That’s what this song taught me.
This song came out when I was little. I will never forget what great music we had back then.
This version just hits the soul differently 😩
Cinto não ter mais 25 anos pois curti de montão Roberta Flack, inclusive toquei essa música em vários shows que apresentamos.
This lady is the epitome of melody, tune, and voice.
And CLASS!
Fantastically sung by Roberta Flack. This song takes me back to 1973 when I was at college.
It makes me feel so young.her version stands out yes she's special
The electric piano is just fantastic. i think Roberta played that on this recording.
im 65yr old .bought this when it first hit the charts. always liked this song these days it reminds me of the younger men i used to date. live alone with my cat now.
This song is Killing me Softly every time I hear it. From 1971 until now it has always brought me great tears of joy like no other. I was just waking up to the world when this song came out. This was after Vietnam and some troubles and helped me see the beauty in love and the song itself. I survived for 55 more years because of music and messages like this. Still listening, Still loving it!!!!!
Thank you for your service. As long as you know this song was a total rip-off of Leon Russell's 'Superstar' written in 1969. A Cherokee American Indian lady named Rita Coolidge first sang this. How it ended up an anthem for others, only God and criminals know.
Hi Michael. Hope you're well! I'm a BBC radio producer making a documentary about this song and what it means to people. Could I possibly send you an email? If you reply here I'll see it and follow up. Thanks very much.
@@mgraves9484 God almighty!! Did not know that. Now you are really bringing back the alt of the earth 60's with Leon Russell and Rita Coolidge.. They don't come better than Rita Coolidge. Thanks so much for the info.
Your two years early....song came out in 1973 not 1971.
Back when music was music, sang with emotion. She sang all her song with such power and grace.
My Mamma loved this song. Good memories of her and the love she had for music. Especially this song. Love you Mamma in Heaven
I had her vinyl album back in the day......Just recently bought the CD as well as her 1st album, First Take. This song was amazing!
What a mix. Separated instruments and a great voice, of course. Lovely.
Roberta in all her LOVELINESS...she has such BEAUTIFUL VOCALS on this CLASSIC song. A MUSICAL GENIUS she will always be, there will never be another musician like Roberta....VERY CLASSY LADY!!😊
I was 11. I was so impacted by this song. I heard it on the radio and it just stuck with me.
Beautiful melody. Love to You, Roberta.
I have been journaling for 3 days now and I use this song to wash away any stress or anxiety. Thank you, Ms. Roberta.
Woke up this morning with THIS SONG echoing in my head.....literally!!! I don't know why, but old songs just pop into my head....then I have to figure out why they haunt me!!! LOL
This is the best it will ever be, some songs were made for certain people, and this song fits Roberta Flack to the soul, well done and thank you for expressing your feelings in this song , WELL DONE 👍
Roberta is killing me softly with her song
This song is soft, full of meaning, and sung in such a flawless way that nears perfection!!
Charles Fox, the Grammy winning composer of "Killing Me Softly", is the subject of a new fantastic documentary you can now rent called "Killing Me Softly With His Songs". After writing 100s of film scores, TV themes and other hit songs like Jim Croce's "I Got A Name" and Barry Manilow's "Ready To Take A Chance Again", Fox got a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame just this past week.
I've also loved this since initially hearing it. Though I like the Fugees version too, Ms. Flack's version has so much more feeling.