Roberta Flack, the Grammy-winning singer known for hits like “Killing Me Softly With His Song” and “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” had humble beginnings in Washington DC. Before achieving fame in New York City, Flack was a nightly performer at Mr. Henry’s on Capitol Hill. Growing up in Arlington, she was awarded a piano scholarship to Howard University at just 15 years old.
Flack’s musical journey took a turn when soul-jazz musician Les McCann discovered her at a benefit performance in DC. This led to an audition with Atlantic Records and the recording of her first album, “First Take.” Her performances at Mr. Henry’s attracted a diverse clientele, including notable personalities like Burt Bacharach and Bill Cosby.
Despite her success on the national stage, Flack maintains a special connection to DC. She fondly remembers her time at Mr. Henry’s and continues to visit the city, performing with the National Symphony Orchestra at the Kennedy Center. Flack’s story is a testament to the power of music, perseverance, and the influence of local venues in shaping a musical career.
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This article was summarized and republished from the original source.
Please check the original article here: https://www.washingtonian.com/2017/06/13/roberta-flack-still-goes-capitol-hill-bar-got-big-break/.