Peabo Bryson, the Grammy-winning R&B singer known for his duets in Disney films such as Beauty and the Beast with Céline Dion and Aladdin’s A Whole New World with Regina Belle, has passed away at the age of 75.
In a statement released by his family, they expressed their sadness over his passing but found solace in the love and impact Bryson had on many through his music and generous spirit. Aside from his Disney classics, Bryson was renowned in the R&B genre for hits like Feel the Fire, I’m So Into You, and Can You Stop the Rain during his career spanning over five decades.
Celine Dion, in a post on social media platform X, extended her condolences to Bryson’s family, reminiscing about their collaboration on the duet Beauty and the Beast. The song, written by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken, won two Grammy Awards and two Academy Awards. Angela Lansbury, who voiced Mrs. Potts in the film, performed the song at the 1992 Oscars.
Throughout his career, Bryson was nominated for eight Grammys and won for his duet with Regina Belle. Born in South Carolina, he worked with various record labels and artists, including Minnie Riperton, Roberta Flack, and Natalie Cole, establishing himself as a sought-after duet partner.
Bryson’s musical journey began in 1975 with Do It With Feeling, which marked his entry into the R&B charts. His collaboration with Roberta Flack on Tonight, I Celebrate My Love became a classic love song of the 1980s, expanding his audience beyond R&B radio. Bryson continued to top the R&B charts with hits like Show & Tell and Can You Stop the Rain.
In 2018, Bryson released his first album in 11 years, Stand for Love, produced by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. His 22nd album, Grace, was released in February. Apart from music, Bryson also appeared in stage productions such as Raisin, The Wiz, and Porgy and Bess.
After experiencing a heart attack in 2019, Bryson made a full recovery but suffered a stroke in late May, leading to his hospitalization. Tributes poured in from fellow artists, including Jody Watley and Kenny Lattimore, as well as Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, where Bryson resided.
Loni Love, a comedian and television host, shared a heartfelt tribute to Bryson, recalling their conversations during a cruise ship event. The family announced that details for Bryson’s memorial and celebration-of-life events will be disclosed at a later date.