Peabo Bryson, the Grammy Award-winning R&B vocalist known for his duets on Disney’s most recognizable film songs, has died at the age of 75, according to a statement from his family. He passed away on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. ET after suffering a stroke, the family said. No additional cause of death was disclosed.
Death
In a public statement, Bryson’s family said he died peacefully surrounded by close relatives. They described his passing as the end of a career that spanned more than five decades in music.
The family also requested privacy as they grieve, noting that funeral and memorial arrangements will be announced at a later date.
Career
Bryson built a long career in R&B beginning in the 1970s, initially performing with the group Moses Dillard and the Tex-Town Display before launching a solo career in 1976.
His early work gained momentum after signing with Bang Records, followed by a move to Capitol Records in 1977. He went on to release a steady stream of R&B albums that established him as a consistent presence in the genre through the late 1970s and 1980s.
Breakthrough
His breakthrough into mainstream pop recognition came in 1984 with the hit single “If Ever You’re in My Arms Again,” which reached the Top 10 on the Billboard charts.
During this period, Bryson became known for his smooth vocal style and emotional ballads, including “Reaching for the Sky,” “Feel the Fire,” and “Can You Stop the Rain.”
He also appeared on television, including a role on the soap opera One Life to Live, where he contributed vocals to the show’s theme song.
Disney Success
Bryson is widely recognized for his duet performances in Disney animated films, which introduced his voice to a global audience.
He performed “Beauty and the Beast” with Celine Dion for the 1991 film of the same name and later sang “A Whole New World” with Regina Belle for Aladdin (1992). Both songs became major international hits and remain closely associated with his career.
These recordings helped solidify his reputation as a leading voice in romantic duet ballads during the 1990s.
Duets and Collaborations
Throughout his career, Bryson frequently collaborated with female vocalists, a format that became one of his defining musical styles.
He recorded the 1983 album Born to Love with Roberta Flack and later released duets with artists including Angela Bofill and Regina Belle. His collaborative work became a consistent feature of his discography and contributed to several charting singles.
Other notable tracks include “Tonight, I Celebrate My Love,” “You’re Looking Like Love to Me,” and “As Long as There’s Christmas.”
Legacy
Across more than five decades, Bryson’s music became closely tied to themes of love, romance, and emotional storytelling. His work crossed R&B and pop audiences and remained influential through both radio play and film soundtracks.
His family noted that his voice became part of many personal and cultural milestones for listeners, spanning weddings, celebrations, and film experiences across generations.
Closing
Memorial and celebration of life arrangements are expected to be announced at a later time by the family.
FAQs
Who was Peabo Bryson?
He was a Grammy-winning R&B singer known for romantic ballads and Disney duets.
What songs was he famous for?
He is best known for ‘A Whole New World’ and ‘Beauty and the Beast.’
How did Peabo Bryson die?
He died at age 75 after suffering a stroke, according to his family.
What was his career known for?
His career spanned R&B hits, duets, and film soundtrack performances.
When did he pass away?
He passed away on June 2, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. ET.
