Roberta Flack was raised in DC's Virginia suburbs, attended Howard University on a music scholarship, was an instructor in the DC Public schools, and had a regular gig at Mr. Henry's on Capitol Hill when she was discovered by major label scouts. The cover photo of her 1969 debut LP, "First Take", is from a performance at Mr. Henry's second-floor lounge and performance space. It's said that Flack's shows in the humble venue were such a hot ticket, the room was aesthetically and sonically re-designed to her personal specifications.
Since then, Roberta has recorded five #1 singles, won five Grammy Awards, and sold countless millions of records. Our collection focuses on her early career and collaborations with other DC-area artists.
Some critics felt that music had moved on from Flack's style of mannered precision, but they were wisely overruled by a public that could sense the love and authenticity that went into it. What's in fact been left far, far behind is that notion that good soul music can't be quiet and sophisticated.
