(September 2, 2025) When a legendary artist passes away, one thing that comforts fans is listening to songs that made them fans in the first place. Something even more special is the arrival of new music from the cherished artist that was previously unreleased. Those new releases can become new favorites.
Fans of legendary songstress Roberta Flack are experiencing that now because a beautiful ballad she recorded back in 1997 called “Eternally” has now been released, six months after her death in February of this year at age 88.Ms. Flack intended to release this song in the past but didn’t get the chance to do so during her lifetime.
“Eternally” is a heartfelt tune that is soft, warm, and soothing, like classic Roberta songs are. The refrain – “You will stay inside my heart, eternally” – makes the tune feel very sentimental, as if it’s a message Ms. Flack could’ve been dedicating to her fans. As it is, the origin of “Eternally” is personal because it was written by two of Ms. Flack’s protégés – bass player Jerry Barnes and his sister, the late Katreese Barnes. Jerry produced it along with Suzanne Koga and Joan Martin.
Though “Eternally” is new in terms of its release, some Roberta fans may have already heard it because she often sang it in concert; she also performed it on Rosie O’Donnell’s daytime talk show in 1997, with Rosie calling the song her favorite.
According to Ms. Flack’s team, the full version of “Eternally” will be included on a specially curated collection of songs, which is scheduled for a first-time digital release later in 2025.
Meanwhile, enjoy this version of “Eternally”, and it just may become one of your new favorites from Roberta Flack.
By Darnea N. Samuels
