Peabo Bryson, Grammy-Winning R&B Singer Behind Disney Classics, Dies at 75
Peabo Bryson, the acclaimed American R&B and soul singer known worldwide for his powerful duets on Disney’s most iconic love songs, has died at the age of 75. The two-time Grammy Award winner passed away on Tuesday in Marietta, Georgia, just days after suffering a stroke. His representative confirmed that he died peacefully at 5:00 p.m. ET, surrounded by close family members.
Bryson had previously experienced serious health challenges, including a major heart attack in 2019. His passing marks the end of a decades-long career that shaped contemporary R&B and left an enduring impact on film music history.
Born Robert Peapo Bryson on April 13, 1951, in Greenville, South Carolina, Bryson began his musical journey shortly after high school. He first toured with Moses Dillard in the late 1960s before launching his solo career. His debut album, Peabo, was released in 1976, leading to a contract with Capitol Records the following year.
Over the course of his career, Bryson released around 20 studio albums and became known for his smooth vocal style and emotional delivery. His most celebrated works include “If Ever You’re in My Arms Again,” “Feel the Fire,” “Can You Stop the Rain,” and the duet “Tonight, I Celebrate My Love” with Roberta Flack.
Global fame came when he partnered with major female vocalists for Disney film soundtracks. He recorded “Beauty and the Beast” alongside Céline Dion for the 1991 animated classic Beauty and the Beast, earning widespread acclaim. The duo won a Grammy Award for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals in 1993.
He followed that success with another Disney milestone, performing “A Whole New World” with Regina Belle for Aladdin, which won him a second Grammy in 1994.
Beyond film soundtracks, Bryson continued performing and touring for decades. He appeared in the U.S. concert tour of The Wiz revival in the late 1990s and released his final studio album, Stand for Love, in 2018, produced by Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis under Perspective Records.
His family released a statement honoring his legacy, describing him as a beloved artist whose voice and spirit touched millions around the world. Bryson is survived by his wife, Tanya Bonaface Bryson, his children Robert and Linda, and three grandchildren.
His influence spans generations, not only through his solo hits but also through his unforgettable collaborations that became timeless staples of romance and animation history.
As fans and fellow artists pay tribute, Bryson’s music continues to resonate as a defining sound of classic R&B and cinematic love songs.
FAQ
What is Peabo Bryson best known for?
He is best known for his R&B hits and his Disney duet songs “Beauty and the Beast” and “A Whole New World.”
How old was Peabo Bryson when he died?
He died at the age of 75.
What caused Peabo Bryson’s death?
He died following a stroke, days after being hospitalized, according to his representative.
Which Grammy Awards did Peabo Bryson win?
He won two Grammy Awards for his duets with Céline Dion and Regina Belle in the early 1990s.
Who are Peabo Bryson’s surviving family members?
He is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren.