Peabo Bryson, the acclaimed R&B singer whose voice graced some of Disney's most beloved film duets, has died at the age of 75.
The two-time Grammy Award winner was internationally recognised for his Oscar-winning collaborations, including “Beauty and the Beast” with Celine Dion and "A Whole New World" with Regina Belle from Aladdin.
His family confirmed in a statement that Bryson passed away on Tuesday evening, just days after suffering a stroke.
"While our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing how deeply Peabo was loved and how many lives were touched by his voice and his generous spirit," the family's statement read. "His legacy and music will live on for generations to come."
Beyond his iconic Disney contributions, Bryson cultivated a distinguished career spanning five decades as one of R&B’s premier balladeers. His repertoire included enduring hits such as "Feel the Fire," "I’m So Into You," and "Can You Stop the Rain."
His family further reflected on his impact, stating: "For more than five decades, Peabo’s extraordinary voice served as the soundtrack to some of life’s most cherished moments. His music carried generations through joyful celebrations, great love stories and enduring moments of comfort and inspiration."
Born and raised in South Carolina, Bryson began his musical journey in the 1970s with the group Moses Dillard and the Tex-Town Display. He soon signed as a solo artist with Atlanta-based Bang Records.
Throughout his career, he recorded for major labels including Capitol, Elektra, and Columbia Records, becoming one of music’s most sought-after duet partners. In addition to Belle and Dion, he collaborated with esteemed artists such as Roberta Flack and Natalie Cole.
His duet with Flack, "Tonight, I Celebrate My Love," became a defining love song of the 1980s, while "If Ever You’re in My Arms Again" broadened his appeal beyond R&B radio. He later achieved number one R&B hits with "Show & Tell" and "Can You Stop the Rain."
Bryson also ventured into stage productions, appearing in Raisin, The Wiz and Porgy and Bess. In 2018, he released his 21st studio album, "Stand for Love," produced by the renowned duo Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis.
The singer had suffered a stroke in late May and was receiving medical care. A representative’s statement at the time requested privacy for the family, adding: "The thoughts, prayers and love of friends and fans are welcomed and deeply appreciated." Bryson had previously made a full recovery after experiencing a heart attack in 2019.
Comedian and television host Loni Love shared a poignant tribute, recalling working with Bryson on a cruise ship last year. She spoke with him for hours one evening, noting: "He shared incredible stories, spoke passionately about his music, and had such a deep love for his craft. I am so grateful to have had that special moment with him."
Details regarding memorial and celebration-of-life arrangements will be announced by Bryson's family at a later date.
