Queerty contributor Conor McGill got his hands on the new best of set by Roberta Flack and sent us in this report.
For over 35 years (which is in no way the real age of Bradford Shellhammer), soul legend Roberta Flack has dazzled the masses with her unique voice and trademark songs that not only tear at the heartstrings, but will get stuck in your head for days. Whether you’re a Roberta novice or you consider her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame Mecca, you can find 17 of her all-time best songs in one place as Atlantic & Rhino Records has just released The Very Best of Roberta Flack.
You’ll instantly recognize the opening track, “Killing Me Softly With His Song,” which, in comparison to The Fugees’ effort, is far superior. But it’s her duets that really show why she is such an icon. “Where Is The Love” and “The Closer I Get To You” with Donny Hathaway are timeless – and make great karaoke fare. Her outing with Peabo Bryson, her long-time collaborator, on “Tonight I Celebrate My Love” is a prom and tacky North Baltimore wedding staple. The crown jewel on this collection, however, is “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face.” Soft, understated, yet powerfully moving, Flack proves why she holds court with Aretha, Diana, Anita, and Whitney. Plus, she’s gay friendly! Well, at least by default – she’ll be on Martha on March 21st. Set your dvrs accordingly. And don’t lie- we all know you will be belting out “Set The Night To Music” this weekend at karaoke. Well, at least I will…until Bradford steals my microphone.
The Very Best Of Roberta Flack [Rhino Records]
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