Peabo Bryson, the two-time Grammy Award-winning R&B singer whose powerful voice helped define romantic ballads and Disney movie classics, has died at age 75 after suffering a stroke, according to family members. Bryson passed away June 2 surrounded by family.
Over a career spanning more than five decades, Bryson became one of music’s most recognizable vocalists, earning acclaim for both his solo recordings and memorable duets. He won Grammy Awards for “Beauty and the Beast” with Celine Dion and “A Whole New World” with Regina Belle, songs that became signature hits and introduced his voice to generations of listeners.
Born in Greenville, South Carolina, Bryson launched his recording career in the 1970s and went on to release more than 20 albums. He earned two Grammy Awards, eight Grammy nominations, five gold albums, 25 Top 20 singles and six No. 1 hits during his distinguished career.
Among his most popular recordings were “If Ever You’re in My Arms Again,” “Can You Stop the Rain,” “Feel the Fire,” and “Tonight, I Celebrate My Love,” his beloved duet with Roberta Flack. His smooth tenor voice and romantic style made him a staple of R&B and adult contemporary radio throughout the 1980s and 1990s.
Bryson’s greatest commercial success came through his Disney collaborations. “Beauty and the Beast” won a Grammy Award in 1993, while “A Whole New World” became the first song from an animated film to reach No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned both Grammy and Academy Award honors.
Fans and fellow artists remembered Bryson as one of contemporary music’s premier male vocalists, whose rich voice and timeless recordings left an enduring mark on R&B, soul and popular music. His legacy lives on through a catalog of songs that continue to resonate with audiences around the world.