About the Song

“Killing Me Softly with His Song” by Roberta Flack is a soulful and evocative ballad that captivates listeners with its heartfelt lyrics and Flack’s powerful vocals. Released in 1973 as a single from her album “Killing Me Softly,” this iconic track quickly became one of Flack’s most celebrated and enduring songs, earning widespread acclaim and multiple Grammy Awards.

From the moment the song begins with its gentle piano intro and Flack’s emotive voice, “Killing Me Softly with His Song” draws listeners into its intimate and introspective world. Flack’s soulful delivery and rich, expressive tone convey a sense of vulnerability and longing that resonates deeply with audiences.

Lyrically, “Killing Me Softly with His Song” is a poignant reflection on the power of music to touch the soul and evoke deep emotions. Based on a true story, the song tells the tale of a woman who is moved to tears by a song she hears on the radio, feeling as though the singer is speaking directly to her own experiences and emotions.

As the song unfolds, Flack’s vocals soar to new heights, conveying a sense of raw emotion and vulnerability that is both captivating and profound. With each heartfelt refrain and soulful riff, she invites listeners to share in her journey of self-discovery and catharsis.

Musically, “Killing Me Softly with His Song” is a masterclass in soul and R&B craftsmanship, with its lush instrumentation and dynamic arrangement. Produced by Joel Dorn, the song’s gentle piano accompaniment and Flack’s emotive delivery create a sense of intimacy and connection that is impossible to ignore.

But perhaps what makes “Killing Me Softly with His Song” truly unforgettable is its universal message of love, loss, and the transformative power of music. Whether you’re listening to it alone in quiet reflection or singing along with loved ones, the song’s emotional resonance speaks to the human experience in a profound and unforgettable way.

In the end, “Killing Me Softly with His Song” is more than just a song; it’s a testament to Roberta Flack’s unparalleled talent and enduring legacy as one of the greatest voices in popular music. As we listen to her impassioned performance and feel the depth of her emotions, we are reminded of the power of music to touch our hearts and souls, and to provide solace and comfort in times of sorrow and pain.

Video

Lyric

… Strumming my pain with his fingersSinging my life with his wordsKilling me softly with his songKilling me softly with his songTelling my whole life with his wordsKilling me softly with his song
… I heard he sang a good songI heard he had a styleAnd so I came to see him to listen for a whileAnd there he was this young boy, a stranger to my eyes
… Strumming my pain with his fingersSinging my life with his wordsKilling me softly with his songKilling me softly with his songTelling my whole life with his wordsKilling me softly with his song
… I felt all flushed with feverEmbarrassed by the crowdI felt he found my lettersAnd read each one out loudI prayed that he would finishBut he just kept right on
… Strumming my pain with his fingersSinging my life with his wordsKilling me softly with his songKilling me softly with his songTelling my whole life with his wordsKilling me softly with his song
… He sang as if he knew me in all my dark despairAnd then he looked right through me as if I wasn’t thereAnd he just kept on singing, singing clear and strong
… Strumming my pain with his fingersSinging my life with his wordsKilling me softly with his songKilling me softly with his songTelling my whole life with his wordsKilling me softly with his song
… Woho, la la la la la la, woho, laha, la
… Strumming my pain with his fingersSinging my life with his wordsKilling me softly with his songKilling me softly with his songTelling my whole life with his wordsKilling me (softly)
… He was strumming my painYeah, he was singing my lifeKilling me softly with his songKilling me softly with his songTelling my whole life with his wordsKilling me softly with his song