James Last orchestra & singers: " The world of the gentleman of music", ...

1.- "Fanfare" - 14.05.2002 & 15.05.2002 in "Stadthalle", Zwickau (Germany). 2.- Medley: "Bésame mucho"/ "A Gay Ranchero"/"Volare" - 14.05.2002 & 15.05.2002 in "Stadthalle", Zwickau (Germany). 3.- "My Heart Will Go On" (Titanic Love Theme) - 29.01.2000 & 30.01.2000 in Bayreuth (Germany).

Joni Mitchell - her music and her life

 Joni Mitchell, born Roberta Joan Anderson on November 7, 1943, in Fort Macleod, Alberta, Canada, is one of the most influential singer-songwriters of the 20th century. Her early years in music laid the foundation for a remarkable career that would see her become a defining voice in folk, rock, and jazz.

Mitchell's musical journey began in her childhood, where she showed an early interest in the arts. She started playing the piano at age seven and later taught herself to play the guitar. Her early influences included folk legends like Pete Seeger and Woody Guthrie, as well as the traditional folk music of her Canadian roots.

In the early 1960s, Mitchell began performing in small clubs and coffeehouses in Saskatoon and throughout western Canada. She adopted the stage name Joni Mitchell after marrying fellow folk singer Chuck Mitchell in 1965. The couple moved to the United States, where Joni's career began to gain traction.

Mitchell's breakthrough came with her move to New York City, where she became a fixture in the Greenwich Village folk scene. Her unique voice, intricate guitar work, and deeply personal lyrics set her apart from her contemporaries. Songs like "Urge for Going" and "Both Sides, Now" were covered by other artists, helping to establish her reputation as a gifted songwriter.

In 1968, Mitchell released her debut album, "Song to a Seagull," produced by David Crosby. The album showcased her poetic lyrics and innovative guitar tunings, earning her critical acclaim and a growing fan base. Her subsequent albums, including "Clouds" (1969) and "Ladies of the Canyon" (1970), solidified her status as a leading figure in the folk music movement.

Joni Mitchell's early years in music were marked by a relentless pursuit of artistic expression and a willingness to push boundaries. Her contributions to the music world have left an indelible mark, and her influence continues to resonate with artists and fans alike.

All reactions:

11KYou and 11K others

'Killing Me Softly' singer Roberta Flack passes away, 88

BY ROBERT REQUINTINA

Feb 24, 2025 11:48 PM

  

---

AT A GLANCE

• The demise of Roberta was announced by her representative. No cause of death was cited in the statement.

---

Roberta Flack (Facebook)

Roberta Flack, the singer behind the No. 1 songs "Killing Me Softly," "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face," and "Feel Like Makin' Love," has passed away. She was 88.

The demise of Roberta was announced by her representative. No cause of death was cited in the statement, according to multiple reports in the US on Feb. 24.

“We are heartbroken that the glorious Roberta Flack passed away this morning, February 24, 2025. She died peacefully surrounded by her family. Roberta broke boundaries and records. She was also a proud educator," the statement read. 

Born on Feb. 10, 1937, Roberta debuted as a recording artist in 1969 with the single "Compared to What."

But it was only in 1972 that her career took off after actor Clint Eastwood used her two-year-old song "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" for his directorial debut "Play Misty For Me" in 1971.

"The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" went to No. 1, followed by another chart-topper, "Killing Me Softly," in 1973. Both songs were awarded back-to-back Grammys for Record of the Year.

In 1974, Roberta hit No. 1 for the third time with "Feel Like Makin' Love." Other chart busters were "The Closer I Get To You," "Making Love," "Jesse," and "Set the Night to Music." 

Filipino music fans will never forget Roberta for her love songs "If Ever I See You Again," "Maybe," and "Tonight, I Celebrate My Love," both tracks performed with Peabo Bryson.

Roberta Flack (Facebook)

Roberta Flack, the singer behind the No. 1 songs "Killing Me Softly," "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face," and "Feel Like Makin' Love," has passed away. She was 88.

The demise of Roberta was announced by her representative. No cause of death was cited in the statement, according to multiple reports in the US on Feb. 24.

“We are heartbroken that the glorious Roberta Flack passed away this morning, February 24, 2025. She died peacefully surrounded by her family. Roberta broke boundaries and records. She was also a proud educator," the statement read.

Born on Feb. 10, 1937, Roberta debuted as a recording artist in 1969 with the single "Compared to What."

But it was only in 1972 that her career took off after actor Clint Eastwood used her two-year-old song "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" for his directorial debut "Play Misty For Me" in 1971. 

"The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" went to No. 1, followed by another chart-topper, "Killing Me Softly," in 1973. Both songs were awarded back-to-back Grammys for Record of the Year.

In 1974, Roberta hit No. 1 for the third time with "Feel Like Makin' Love." Other chartbusters were "The Closer I Get To You," "Making Love," "Jesse," and "Set the Night to Music."

Filipino music fans will never forget Roberta for her love songs "If Ever I See You Again," "Maybe," and "Tonight, I Celebrate My Love," both tracks performed with Peabo Bryson.