Roberta Flack has passed away at the age of 88, leaving behind a legacy that transcends music. A Grammy-winning artist and spiritual seeker, she was known in the Sri Chinmoy community as Addwitiya, meaning “matchless” or “second to none.” With a voice that defied genres, she infused songs like The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face with rare depth and soul, making them truly timeless.
February 16, 2025 – In recognition of her profound contributions to music and her ability to inspire millions, Flack was honored with the Sri Chinmoy Culture-Light Award on her 88th birthday in a special ceremony at her New York residence. This prestigious award celebrates those who illuminate the human spirit through their work, and Flack’s lifelong dedication to uplifting humanity through song made her a most deserving recipient.
A classically trained musician, she was the first artist to win back-to-back Grammys for Record of the Year, using her extraordinary talent to express deeply felt messages that continue to resonate across generations. Her music invited listeners to explore their inner worlds while embracing life’s beauty. Reflecting on her journey, she once shared, “I want to keep my feet on the ground and let my spirit soar.” This powerful sentiment was later set to music by Sri Chinmoy, the spiritual leader, composer, and humanitarian after whom the award is named.
The award, directed by Ranjana Ghose, has previously honored luminaries such as Archbishop Desmond Tutu, President Mikhail Gorbachev, and composer Philip Glass. Its crystal design bears an etching of Sri Chinmoy’s world-harmony painting, Unity, adorned with his signature peace-bird drawings—symbols of the soul’s boundless journey. Alongside the award, Flack was presented with a certificate featuring a poem by Sri Chinmoy, capturing the essence of her artistic vision and life’s work:
God never encouraged me
To learn the world-denial-song.
On the contrary,
He inspired, encouraged
And blessed me
To sing the world-acceptance-song
And dance the world-transformation-dance.
– Sri Chinmoy
The ceremony also included a heartfelt birthday celebration for Roberta Flack, to whom the community extended warm wishes. A special slideshow, created by Vyakulata and Gesiane, beautifully highlighted the occasion.
With this recognition, Roberta Flack joins a distinguished list of honorees whose creativity and dedication continue to inspire and uplift the world. Her music remains a beacon of hope, reminding us all of the power of song to unite hearts and transcend boundaries.
To find out more about Sri Chinmoy, please visit the official website: www.srichinmoy.org