<P> The song was written in collaboration with Lori Lieberman , who recorded the song in late 1971 . In 1973 it became a number - one hit in the US and Canada for Roberta Flack , also reaching number six in the UK Singles Chart . Many artists have covered the song ; the version by the Fugees won the 1997 Grammy for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal . </P>
who sang the original killing me softly with his song
Lori Lieberman