FIRST TIME HEARING ROBERTA FLACK KILLING ME SOFTLY

[@yvetteadshead4212]

We were so lucky growing up with this music, it was the best of times, we took it for granted

[@chomama1628]

Yvette Adshead no, we soaked it up and it still lives in us.

[@VicEclectica]

In a way we did at the time. But seeing other people discovering it is somehow a very joyful thing.

[@wanda520]

So true. It was a golden time for sure .

[@Kate98755]

I didn’t take it for granted, I would listen to music for hours

[@yvetteadshead4212]

@@chomama1628 very true, of course it is still with us, I'm not sure what you don't agree with . What I meant by my remark was that the music was so good at that time that I presumed that would be the norm from there on in.

[@foots-qt4pk]

"The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" !!!!! Best Roberta Flack song EVER!!!

[@kelperdude]

Absolutely. It's mesmerizing.

[@kensyskye8965]

foots2066 beautiful song! 💕

[@ilovemusicnia]

Yes yes YES!!!!

[@ilovemusicnia]

React to the studio version!

[@johnmartinez8971]

foots2066 Fun facts: this song was a remake originally written in 1956. When she was asked about the emotional inspiration for the was she preformed the song she said she was feeling the loss of her pet cat who has killed days before the recording.

[@timebandito4278]

The Fugees did a good remake of this, but Roberta Flack is QUEEN!!! She has such a soulful voice and doesn't have to rely on a dozen different inflections to make you feel amazing

[@donalddunlop401]

The 70s were the time before corporate assholes stepped in and started creating acts. People with amazing talent like Roberta Flack rose to the heights purely on their talent; they didn't have brands and handlers and promoters. Music today has few people with the merit of a Roberta Flack or Gladys Knight or Donna Summer ... but those with such talent can still be found in local places, sharing their gifted voices with their neighbors and communties.

[@allankelly2500]

This version kzbin.info/www/bejne/pXyypa1_pJKoj9k

[@thefabulousmula]

Roberta Flack also did a remake of this song originally recorded by Lori Lieberman

[@toddmercure9745]

Several folks have covered this song. This is the best, hands down.

[@shineonyoucrazydiamond824]

This isn’t the original

[@jmrx12]

@@shineonyoucrazydiamond824 not the studio version, but Roberta Flack is the original singer.

[@jasonhenninger8220]

@@jmrx12 Lori Lieberman co-wrote it and released a recording a year earlier kzbin.info/www/bejne/g3jPeH2maK6UqLM

[@mrcoldshower2823]

Lori Lieberman did the first, more of a folk song. She knew the writers, she had wrote a poem after watching a Don McLean concert; the song Empty Chairs got to her This is the best cover, is a classic.

[@dinahwise1861]

They don't make them like that anymore honey, she is the original very beautiful singer

[@loreyslair8358]

ROBERTA FLACK - Now listen to "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face"' It will blow your mind. It didn't seem to go anywhere and I don't know why, till Clint Eastwood put it in a move, Play Misty for Me. Then it won an academy award. Next: GLEN CAMPBELL with these songs: "Gentle On My Mind" - "By The Time I Get To Phoenix" -- "William Tell Overture" - on a 12 string guitar. THANKS! Glen Campbell actually has the best version of "Good Vibrations"

[@loreyslair8358]

DAN HILL - "Sometimes When We Touch" I don't think I've suggested this one before, if so, sorry. Thanks.

[@coolcpa3321]

Roberta Flack was a 1970's Phenom: 1973 Grammy Song of the Year - First Time Ever I Saw Your Face 1974 Grammy Song of the Year - Killing Me Softly With His Song Killing Me Softly With His Song was written about Don McLean. His songs American Pie and Vincent are classics. People cry when they hear Vincent; particularly if they know about the tortured life of artist Vincent Van Gogh.

[@RicoBurghFan]

Agreed. FTIESYF is transplendent.

[@joannparker1977]

The most beautiful song ever.

[@terryperry8636]

Yes!

[@kensyskye8965]

So great to watch these young people enjoying the music of my time...... Absolutely beautiful song and singer .....Pure & simple.......🥰 Keep well all watching...🙏🏼💕🇬🇧

[@SWLinPHX]

Originally written and recorded by Lori Lieberman recounting the existential experience she had when seeing Don McLean perform live and how his poignant music and lyrics seemed to pierce her soul. Roberta's #1 hit cover was the biggest hit that made it famous.

[@ladycourttales2720]

Songs were stories, sung from the heart, pure vocals, and great musicians.

[@realemiele.franco736]

Hooooooo!! Brings me back to the late 1970's. Roberta Flack is a legend in the music industry.... mad respect for this icon. Beautiful voice... so soothing.

[@debbieepps7029]

You just put a big ass smile on my face too. Been MANY moons since I've heard this. Used to roller skate to this song in the '70's. Damn I'm old!!!! LOL!!! Best of times! You should listen to some 60'- 70's Motown. A lot of amazing SINGERS!!!

[@toddmercure9745]

I miss those couples skates at the local roller rink when I was a teen! Good memories.

[@davisworth5114]

Language, Debbie.

[@Malibonus]

As many have mentioned before, ""The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face"" is a MUST!

[@hobotopper]

Lori Lieberman who recorded the first version of this also co-wrote the lyrics for it with Norman Gimbel, and the music was by Charles Fox. She was inspired to write the lyrics after going to a Don McLean concert. People mistakenly think Roberta wrote it because it was her version that made it become a classic and is still the best.

[@Maya-bu2rf]

"Killing Me Softly with His Song" is a song composed by Charles Fox with lyrics by Norman Gimbel. The lyrics were written in collaboration with Lori Lieberman after she was inspired by a Don McLean performance in late 1971. Killing Me Softly with His Song - Wikipedia

[@michellebenavidez2728]

Great info

[@Phoenix85006]

Thanks to my older sisters for playing Ms. Roberta Flack around the house growing up and introducing me to this lovely lady's music.

[@flubblert]

I've never heard the Lauryn Hill version, this is always been the only version for me. Roberta is also the author of the song. You must check out "First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" next. So beautiful it's almost like a Prayer.

[@b1bmsgt]

flubblert You're lucky. It sucks... Roberta is so far superior it's ridiculous!

[@jedislap8726]

@@b1bmsgt It clearly doesn't suck does it. They won a Grammy for it. In fact it was so successful they had to pull it from the stores because it was overshadowing their next release. It was Number One in over 20 countries and was one of the most played and most purchased song of the year worldwide.

[@flubblert]

@Dahoss oh thanks Dahoss. You live and you learn.

[@flubblert]

@Dahoss yep.

[@Shaden008]

Flubbert I agree and I hope he goes ahead and listens to "First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" too. That has to be one of the sexiest songs of it's time.

[@robertsantana5938]

Check her duet with Donny Hathaway called “the closer I get to you” it’s a beautiful ballad you will enjoy

[@xoxxobob61]

One of the greatest ballads ever written !

[@fleaflicker1451]

Oooh Robert THANK YOU for reminding me of this, I love that song!!!

[@clydeb7713]

Yes, and definitely the song Where Is The Love has amazing soul.

[@melissagibson3306]

My favorite.

[@niccolea2086]

Robert Santana I love that song.

[@kwaobenti]

I like watching his reactions, they are so genuine!

[@jamestempleton5277]

She is singing about Don McLean. She loved his music.

[@markscutti9682]

James Templeton Don McLean’s Vincent

[@kensyskye8965]

James Templeton wow didn’t know that!

[@jamestempleton5277]

@@markscutti9682 TY for the correction, lack of sleep lol.

[@Errorloadingvideo]

I enjoy watching you experience new music. So full of joy and innocence.

[@taun856]

@@markscutti9682 I always heard it was a reaction to hearing him sing "Empty Chairs", but you may be right... And Roberta didn't write the song, another woman did (in conjunction with two men who wrote the music)...

[@perrymalcolm3802]

It’s Roberta’s! Fugee’s?! Pshaw! Try the live version of her First Time I Ever Saw Your Face! Such talent!! And yes PURE voice!

[@johnkendall6558]

lauryn hill couldn't lick Roberta's boot

[@locomojoboy2]

That’s the problem when young people listen to music-they have no idea that song isn’t an original song. They just think if they hear it from Lauren Hill, 2pac, etc. that it’s gotta be their original song.

[@marggie4129]

This isn't the original song either...It is by a young girl...Lori Lieberman

[@9529jake]

Kinda ironic since this is not the orginal you idiot 😂

[@bryanstock281]

Considering this is live, no auto tune, it’s as close to flawless as humanly possible. This is a 10

[@deserthound2605]

Reminds me of riding in the car with my parents in 1973. At the height of its popularity radio stations played it constantly. I too am old, and this song brings back the memories of a lot people I loved who are long gone.

[@jeffmorse645]

Roberta Flack was one of the important artists of the 1970s, both with her solo songs and her duets with Donny Hathaway. Incredible voice.

[@antoneogzewalla2040]

As far as I'm concerned, "Killing me softly" is RB's second best song. her best is "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face"... If you thought her voice was amazing on KMS just wait til you hear this one. It's sooo good.

[@tjk7234]

You’re absolutely right, First Time I Ever Saw Your Face is probably the most beautiful song that I’ve ever heard. It gets you right in the feels, amazing.

[@sergiolobato1798]

She's singing about the fellow singer Don McLean the singer of Vincent and American Pie.

[@jemxs]

When I was born there were complications and mum and I were in hospital for weeks. This song was playing from the nurse station every day. So mum says it's our song and I have to play it on my phone everytime I visit! I'm 47 and mum is 87. Brings her so much joy!

[@ceedeeare4real917]

WHERE IS THE LOVE is nice, Roberta and the late Donny Hathaway, as well as THE CLOSER I GET TO YOU.

[@roseunderwood6298]

Roberta Flack sings like she is holding a conversation. So personal. The Flower 🌹

[@bobbobson4277]

The original is Lori Lieberman, I think Roberta's is probably the best version though.

[@juliawhitmee9257]

Roberta flack...'first time ever I saw your face'...beautiful please give it a go !

[@asm6837]

Written & sung originally by Lori Lieberman who wrote it about her crush Don Mclean.

[@CBGB_1977]

The simple gentleness of the original is a world of true beauty. It didn't need over-production. Can't mess with perfection.

[@michaelmaehle1433]

Roberta's cover of "Bridge Over Troubled Water" is practically a religious experience. From the album "Quiet Fire". Check THAT out!

[@priscillachung-hacker5923]

I agree! I love her version of that song. It moves me to tears every time I hear it. Roberta is my absolute favourite female singer. Her voice is pure magic.

[@sherstewart4907]

It absolutely is!

[@dawnharris1575]

Roberta Flack is amazing, I get lost in her music everytime I listen to her songs. I absolutely love her.

[@HBFTimmahh]

Back when one had to actually be a Singer to get a record deal. Sad these days are gone.

[@musicsansnotes]

Roberta brought tears to my eyes often. Her music is angelic. I'm sorry that artists nowadays can't sing like this and about clean themes like this. Everyone loved her songs.

[@joeterp5615]

Great reaction!. So spot on - her voice singing this song... so pure, so perfect, so sublimely beautiful! Easy to get lost in this. And I love her presence as she sings this, just seems to flow so effortlessly from her.. She’s so cool, mellow , and comfotable as the words and notes, fully enfused with emotion and meaning, flow like a beautifil stream from her lips.

[@Jaydon05]

I just smiled because of your reaction! Nice reaction vid! Thx!

[@masterofsparkshwy6974]

Love this song.. had to PROVE to my teenage daughter.. who I had never deceived in her life.. that this wasn't Lauryn Hill's song. Lol

[@JulioLeonFandinho]

Exactly, The Fugees did a very good job covering this beautiful song

[@chrisredenbach7753]

She is amazing. I was working in music in Wash DC when this song came out. She was a revelation. But even though I know the song myself, it is super enjoyable to listen and watch you because it's a sharing experience celebrating the high that great music brings on. Keep up the good work. I've sent in a few suggestions I think you would like but I'm not sure if there is a more direct way to get them to you so you'll see them.

[@godsspeedify]

Roberta Flack was not the first to cover this song,. She has the best version hands down, the song was written by 2 white men Charles Fox , Norm Gimbel And collaborated with Lori liberman ...

[@trevortamboline279]

Glad you appreciate what a special song this is, how amazing Roberta Flack is and that it's the original. "First Time I Ever Saw Your Face" and "Feel Like Makin' Love" are your next ones to listen to.

[@shineonyoucrazydiamond824]

It’s not the original

[@trevortamboline279]

@@shineonyoucrazydiamond824 WOW! I can't believe it! I always thought Roberta Flack was the originator, but after a Google search I discovered Lori Lieberman recorded it for the first time in 1972... one year before Roberta Flack! Thanks for the info.

[@shineonyoucrazydiamond824]

@@trevortamboline279 your welcome

[@heidibrinkley4865]

I'm so glad you kids can hear the classics.

[@christopherfletcher5384]

I think it was some sort of a three way collaboration from Charles Fox, Norman Gimbel & Lori Lieberman together provided music and lyrics. The inspiration was from a late 1971 performance from Don McLean the artist that wrote and performed "Vincent".

[@dagnelpaula1]

I LOVE the music of Roberta Flack. This song is actually the very first song of hers that I ever heard. Beautiful, haunting song that has really become a classic! When you're able, you should check out her beautiful rendition of "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow," originally recorded in 1960 by the all black girl group, the Shirelles. (The Shirelle's sang it very upbeat, and peppy, but Roberta slowed it way down, and made it one of the most beautiful songs that has ever been recorded. Will bring you to tears.) Thank you for playing this beautiful song.

[@a.omurbattalgazi1313]

My dad was a great admirer, and me too, still am. Roberta Flack with her “Killing me softly” will always be on my magic list. My heart just flies so high while listening. How lovely to meet likely feeling folks. Sending hugs from Istanbul ♥️

[@toddmercure9745]

I love this song!

[@terryperry8636]

LOVE Roberta and this is one of my favorites of hers.

[@johnandrews3151]

I'm glad you got to hear this classic original. This was Roberta's second #1 hit and her second Top 40 hit. The song was written by a song writer who went to see Neil Diamond in concert in the early 70's. Her first hit is considered an ultra classic ballad and love song. It is called The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face. Both songs were big hits and stayed at #1 for a month solid. Btw, Neil Diamond had many hits in the 60's and into the 80's. He is a forgotten star today but has earned recognition for several #1 hits such as Song Sung Blue, America, Love On The Rocks and more. He also had many top 10 hits like Done Too Soon, Stones, Play Me and many more. His last hit was Headed For The Future in the early 80's. Reviewing any of his hits would be a plus! My favorite by Neil is called Walk On Water.

[@1herbert100]

When I watch you react to these wonderfull singers it brings tears to my eyes because you have missed so many.

[@mustangdebbie56]

Song was written by Lori Lieberman, Norman Gimbel and others, recorded by Lori first but Roberta's version is the one that became a hit.

[@theghost6412]

God that voice!!!! Lover her so much. I'm so glad i grew up listening to such a diverse range of music, Country, Blues, Soul, Rock, Metal, Punk, Alternative, Electric, Ballad, Old Pop, ...... Yeah its just too diverse to mention. So many both local and international bands, groups and solo singers my parents listened to.

[@lowrider4266]

Wow haven't heard this song in so long. Thanks. Always loved this song.

[@sheriraemalfroid-patterson2935]

Meatloaf singing,” Two out of three ain’t bad”- watch him singing it live and you won’t be disappointed!!!

[@justsheley]

Paradise by the dashboard light, lol And some Tim Curry!

[@maryannthornes4984]

Aww.Meatloaf.2 out a 3. Plus BAT OUTA HELLL. Never say him only listened.

[@DerekDominoes]

The songwriters who wrote this song were reacting to a live concert by Don McLean of "American Pie" fame. By the way, I like both this version and the version by the Fugees.

[@king_supreme1102]

I usually don’t even listen to this type of music. But this song hypnotizes me. Absolutely love it.

[@Marcus-Oh-really-yes]

Definitely give a listen to Roberta's "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face." She also has some great duets with Donny Hathaway, including "The Closer I Get to You."

[@kavalere]

Heard it first as a kid and still love it as much today. So beautiful....so beautiful.

[@Teresia12]

Roberta cannot be beat. Everytime I hear her sing I get chills from her voice, so pure, so clear. ♥️

[@patriciogamboa488]

This is one of my favorite songs....This Lady has the most amazing voice.

[@NyMyers64]

She's an amazing vocalist, other songs people have listed in the comments are great, too.

[@mordabeyak]

I would love to see you react to some Fifth Dimension - "Aquarius", "Wedding Bell Blues" or "Stone Soul Picnic" - so many great songs actually. My folks had several albums, and I definitely had a crush on Marilyn McCoo as a seven year old, lol. Beautiful lady and beautiful voice.

[@ronjm945]

Beautiful song from a talented musician and Roberta Flack..

[@deanamorgan2643]

Love Roberta Flack. Her Voice is so sensual and touching. So happy to see you enjoy our time of music and even still today I love listening to all the good times. Loved your reaction and what soul you have. Deep and Genuine to your core☮️

[@moonmother.]

Another one of her incredible songs is "Feel Like Makin' Love" . Enjoy 💕

[@StaceyBeryl]

Original and perfect. She sang from her soul, absolutely beautiful. None can compare.

[@Mr54nomore]

Forty eight years ago back in 1972 singing live without autotuned, and she sounds like this. That is a testament to the artist of the 60's and 70's who really loved their craft. They put the time and effort to make music such as this. What a performance from a true lady of song. I was 18 years old, and a senior in high school when this came out. Now that I am 66 years old. She sounds good to me now as she did when I was a teenager. Priceless!

[@spartan22ize]

Amazing song...and voice...loved it for the last 40+ years...

[@timelston4260]

Really cool to see someone young like you discovering some of the songs I grew up on. The Carpenters, Chicago, Roberta Flack. Quality music. Cool you're reviewing it.

[@sulindajon9228]

This song always gives me goosebumps!

[@raysmith7543]

It's really awesome to see you enjoy music that was so much a big part of my life when I was young. It proves that music never dies.

[@kavalere]

One of the first songs I remember hearing as a kid.....one of the most beautiful ever.....still and forever.

[@patrickcoomer1271]

I can hear this song over and over again, as I have for almost 50 years now. The original will always remain the best. Thanks for covering this, and I'm happy you agree she did this tune better than anyone ever could.

[@gerimessina7286]

This is not the original, but it is the one that made it a hit. There are stories and rumors - look into it for yourself. I grew up with this and grew up believing it was the original (I think most people did) I have to say that when I found out RF's was not the original, I was a bit heart broken because it just has that "original" feel to it. Roberta Flak OWNZ this song. There is something ephemeral, sweetly distant and magical about this version. Not only the way in which RF delivers it but the instrumentals, and arrangement as well. There are subtle nuances to this song that defy explanation. The story behind this song that inspired the artist who deserves (who knows how much) credit? because Roberta, the other musicians, and back up singers bring so much to this rendition), is musically historical itself and it is about another singer and artist. I love this song - it is sweet, melancholy and it always induced a sense of personal, privacy and intimacy with myself (can't explain it better right now).

[@debbiechang5781]

Great choice! I love your reactions. This is a beautiful song. Huge hit in the early 70’s. Please check out Linda Ronstadt.

[@freckled100]

She is in my top ten most beautiful voices. I got to see her in person and she is so amazing!

[@5d512]

First Time Ever I Saw Your Face (Live 1972 I think). Unforgettable.

[@nora22000]

This song was the first "reaction" video; Lori Lieberman went to a concert where Don McLean ("American Pie" and "Vincent") stole her breath away with his depth and feeling for such a baby-faced young man. She wrote her reaction to his performance in the lyrics to this song. Amazing, huh? Don McLean inspired what is today an entire genre of KZbin videos!

[@johnnylnowlin]

I was a kid in the seventies when this came out. It was magical, sublime and uniquely beautiful. Now I'm fifty three. When I wanna revisit my youth . . . . this is one of the main songs I throw on!! BLESS that incredible talented woman and artist!

[@phantomrockerr]

Roberta had such a beautiful voice. Great song.

[@GS-xt8fu]

No auto tune. That’s live. Real talent. That’s the original

[@mango1632]

I grew up in the 70's I was in elementary school and this was a favorite song of mine. Her most MESMERIZING song is "First time ever I saw your face" Utterly BEAUTIFUL!!!

[@tracidevine4591]

I love that you're playing oldies. I can binge watch these all day. I don't watch the channels that play today's music. You're taking me back to my younger days and I'm loving it. Thank you 😊

[@SF_Bud]

This came out when I was 12 (1973), and is still one of my favorite songs ever!

[@raphaellavelasquez8144]

Roberta Flacks sone " The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" was in the thriller movie "Play Misty for Me."

[@debramorano]

I saw that movie at the drive in. I miss drive ins.

[@jenniferdixon7633]

I’m so glad it was referred to you. It’s so worth it. Me too. I could listen to her all day, every day. As much as I respect and like Lauryn Hill, Roberta will always be the best. I’m sure Lauryn would agree.

[@23skidoo46]

Roberta Flack had an amazing voice. amazing singer and song.

[@kattsmeow8447]

My eyes are closed listening to R.F.. Her voice so beautiful....i miss the 70's

[@doreendaykin6693]

Until I discovered your channel I truly did not fully appreciate the music & the talent I was graced to grow up with.... gratitude 🙏😊❣️ my friends & I sat for hrs. on my bedroom circling my record player playing her over & over & over.... we sang with her, we stuck whatever pictures of her we could lay our hands on on our bedroom walls....gave our allowance to friends going on vacation to the states (Grew up in Halifax, Nova Scotia) to get the style of cloths she wore....God.l..we were just kids...but we knew & recognized talent, grace, class... she had it in spades....! Thank you for showcasing her. 🙏

[@ohfour-seven6228]

So glad you liked this song. It was a HUGE hit on the top 40 radio, back when the radio was fun.

[@nyxly5328]

My eyes always fill up with tears when I listen to Roberta Flack. I think to myself, 'no, no, not this time' and then wham, I can't talk for a little while. So beautiful. Otherworldly.

[@glennbrock6560]

Nice Reaction. One of the most perfectly put on vinyl songs ever is by this artist. The great Roberta Flack, the song is, "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face", original studio version. Perfection!

[@annetteallen6521]

I saw her in concert and she was perfect. The sound was just like in a studio. I cried for just a minute.

[@tarjaraag2798]

Amazing!! I love this song, I love Roberta Flack! And, I love you! ... I love when you say HOLD ON MAN! I hear ya!!

[@jodieturner6350]

I remember when it came out on the radio.❤Still sounds awesome!! I agree with you.😃🎶

[@donaldjz]

Pure voice, no autotune back then.

[@annedunne4526]

I do love how much you enjoy the songs and singers, bands etc. of my teens and early adulthood. Roberta Flack was always wonderful.

[@patrickdoake6022]

So many female singers of quality in 60s and 70s giants and legends for as long as man walks the earth!

[@ervicito77]

Love, love, love this soft song. It's one of my mom's fave songs from the 1970s. I love the Fugeees's version, but the original is sooooo heavenly.