Introduction:
The Softly Sung Story of “Killing Me Softly with Her Song”
While Perry Como’s smooth vocals delivered a popular rendition of “Killing Me Softly with Her Song” in 1973, the song’s origins lie a few years prior. Here’s the story behind the tune that captivated audiences:
1971: Birth of a Melody: Lori Lieberman, a folk singer, composed a poem titled “Killing Me Softly With Her Blues.” It expressed a melancholic yearning for a lover.
Transformation by Fox & Gimbel: Songwriters Norman Gimbel and Charles Fox discovered Lieberman’s poem and crafted a melody around it. The lyrics shifted from bluesy despair to a gentler, almost romantic tone.
Roberta Flack Takes Center Stage: Roberta Flack, a rising soul singer, heard the reworked song and felt an instant connection. Her soulful interpretation, released in 1973, became an instant hit, topping the Billboard charts. Flack’s version emphasized the song’s vulnerability and emotional depth.
Perry Como’s Velvet Touch: Around the same time, Perry Como, known for his smooth baritone and easy-listening style, released his rendition of “Killing Me Softly with Her Song.” Como’s version stayed true to the song’s gentler melody, offering a more sentimental take compared to Flack’s soulful delivery.
Como’s version, while commercially successful, couldn’t overshadow the immense popularity of Flack’s recording. However, it showcased the song’s versatility, appealing to a wider audience with its calming melody and Como’s signature charm.
So, as you listen to Perry Como’s “Killing Me Softly with Her Song,” remember the song’s journey – from a heartfelt poem to a chart-topping anthem of vulnerability. Como’s rendition offers a chance to experience the song through a different lens, one that soothes the soul with its gentle touch.