I would not call it the "most beautiful song of the RnR era" but the running list ought to include "Killing Me Softly" by Roberta Flack.
The Most Beautiful Song of The RnR era?
I'm about to spend a week with my father in law, who loves music but insists that nothing of interest (that is, beautiful) has been produced since WWII. In order to get a little music in, I thought I'd burn a compilation cd that might not offend his sensibilities too deeply. "God Only Knows", "Hello, It's Me", "Truly, Madly, Deeply", "Something", and "Bee's Wing" are in. Many others are under conssideration. Your additional suggestions would be appreciated.