Fans React to Ashley Darby’s Pitchy Tribute to Roberta Flack: A Viral Sensation!

Let’s dive into the melodious mayhem that unfolded when Ashley Darby of “The Real Housewives of Potomac” took a stab at tribute singing, and let’s just say… it was a pitchy affair that caught the internet’s attention like a cat meme on a Tuesday. In a recent appearance on FOX 5 DC, the 36-year-old reality star decided to honor the late Roberta Flack by performing her iconic ballad “Killing Me Softly with His Song.” Now, before you roll your eyes or cringe from the sheer audacity, let’s talk context. This tribute was meant to promote Darby’s first exhibition at the renowned Mr. Henry’s in Southeast D.C., scheduled for April 5.
While the intention was undoubtedly noble, the execution? Not so much. Darby’s rendition turned out to be more of a vocal rollercoaster ride, drawing reactions that were as colorful as her outfit. The performance attracted the attention of Tony Award winner Melba Moore, who shared a GIF of Aretha Franklin and her memorable quip about “great gowns, beautiful gowns,” seemingly serving up a side of shade alongside a dash of sass. Social media lit up with comments ranging from “Killing me softly indeed” to “This is the type of confidence and audacity I aspire to have,” proving that when it comes to public performances, confidence can be a double-edged sword.
Roberta Flack, whose soothing vocals made waves with classics like “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” passed away on February 24, 2025, at the age of 88, leaving a legacy that only the bravest dare to touch. Flack’s recent battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) had already made headlines, and her passing brought an air of reverence to any tribute. One can only imagine that she was spinning in her grave upon hearing Darby’s performance. After all, one shouldn’t mess with the legends—especially those who broke boundaries and records in the music industry.
As Darby prepares to perform live at Mr. Henry’s, with ticket proceeds benefiting the House of Ruth, one hopes her setlist has been curated with a bit more caution. The venue promises an eclectic mix of music over the course of the evening, but let’s keep the pitchiness out of it this time, shall we?
So, whether you find yourself cringing or chuckling at this viral moment, remember that in the world of reality TV, audacity often outweighs talent. And who knows? The next pitchy performance could very well be your next guilty pleasure.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and People Magazine, Entertainment Weekly, FOX 5 DC
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed