NAIROBI, Kenya— The music world is mourning the loss of legendary R&B singer Peabo Bryson, whose powerful voice helped define some of Disney’s most beloved classics and earned him a place among the most celebrated vocalists of his generation.
Bryson died at the age of 75, surrounded by family and loved ones, according to a statement released by his family.
While a cause of death has not been publicly disclosed, reports indicate the singer suffered a stroke over the weekend and had been receiving medical treatment.
Voice behind Disney’s most iconic songs
For millions of fans around the world, Bryson’s voice became synonymous with some of Disney’s most memorable musical moments.
He won two Grammy Awards in consecutive years for duet performances that became cultural landmarks.
In 1992, Bryson teamed up with Celine Dion for Beauty and the Beast, the title track from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.
A year later, he won another Grammy alongside Regina Belle for A Whole New World, featured in Disney’s Aladdin.
The songs remain among the most successful and enduring Disney soundtracks ever recorded.
Career spanned more than five decades
Beyond his Disney success, Bryson built a distinguished career that stretched from the 1970s through the 2010s.
His catalogue included numerous R&B and soul hits such as Feel the Fire, I’m So Into You, Can You Stop the Rain, If Ever You’re in My Arms Again and Reaching for the Sky.
His smooth vocals and romantic ballads earned him a loyal global fan base and cemented his reputation as one of R&B’s defining voices.
In a heartfelt tribute, his family reflected on the impact of his music across generations.
“For more than five decades, Peabo’s extraordinary voice served as the soundtrack to some of life’s most cherished moments,” the statement read.
“His music carried generations through joyful celebrations, great love stories and enduring moments of comfort and inspiration.”
Legacy lives on through timeless music
Even in his later years, Bryson remained active in the music industry.
He performed alongside fellow R&B star Jeffrey Osborne during a concert in Georgia in May and was preparing for several performances as part of his Golden Touch tour later this year.
Just weeks before his death, Bryson celebrated his 75th birthday with family and friends, sharing photographs from the occasion on social media.
His family said they take comfort in knowing how deeply he was loved by fans around the world.
“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,” they said.
As tributes continue to pour in, Bryson leaves behind a musical legacy that spans generations, genres and continents. From soulful R&B ballads to Disney classics that introduced his voice to millions of children and families, his songs will continue to resonate long after his passing.
