Grammy-Winning Singer Peabo Bryson Dies at 75
Peabo Bryson, the acclaimed two-time Grammy Award-winning R&B singer, has passed away at the age of 75.
His family announced that Bryson died on Tuesday evening, following a stroke he experienced days prior.
This development marks the end of a prolific career that spanned over five decades, leaving a significant impact on the music industry.
Bryson was widely celebrated for his iconic contributions to Disney films, lending his voice to the Oscar-winning duets "Beauty and the Beast" with Celine Dion and "A Whole New World" with Regina Belle from *Aladdin*.
These collaborations cemented his status as one of music's most sought-after duet partners.
Beyond his Disney fame, Bryson cultivated a distinguished career as a premier R&B balladeer.
He recorded numerous hits, including "Feel the Fire," "I'm So Into You," and "Can You Stop the Rain." His family's statement highlighted his enduring legacy, noting, "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.
His legacy and music will live on for generations to come."
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 later signed as a solo artist with Atlanta-based Bang Records, and went on to record for Capitol, Elektra, and Columbia Records.
His collaborations extended beyond Disney, featuring artists such as Roberta Flack and Natalie Cole.
His duet with Roberta Flack, "Tonight, I Celebrate My Love," became a defining love song of the 1980s, while "If Ever You're in My Arms Again" helped broaden his audience beyond R&B radio.
Bryson also achieved No.
1 R&B hits with "Show & Tell" and "Can You Stop the Rain." In addition to his musical endeavors, he appeared in stage productions including *Raisin*, *The Wiz*, and *Porgy and Bess*.
His 21st studio album, *Stand for Love*, produced by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, was released in 2018.
"For more than five decades, Peabo's extraordinary voice served as the soundtrack to some of life's most cherished moments," his family's statement concluded.
"His music carried generations through joyful celebrations, great love stories and enduring moments of comfort and inspiration."
Key points
- Two-time Grammy Award-winning R&B singer Peabo Bryson has died at the age of 75.
- Bryson's family confirmed his passing on Tuesday evening, days after he suffered a stroke.
- He was widely recognized for his Oscar-winning Disney duets, "Beauty and the Beast" with Celine Dion and "A Whole New World" with Regina Belle.