Peabo Bryson, Grammy-winning Disney balladeer, dies at 75

Peabo Bryson, the two-time Grammy-winning R&B singer whose voice helped define two of Disney’s biggest 1990s ballads, has died at 75, his family told CBS News.

Bryson died Tuesday surrounded by family after suffering a stroke Sunday and receiving medical care, CBS reported. The Guardian also reported that his family said he died Tuesday, days after a stroke.

“We are tremendously moved by the outpouring of love, prayers and support from fans, friends, and colleagues around the world,” his family said in a statement to CBS. “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.”

Bryson was best known to many listeners for his Disney duets. CBS reported that he won two Grammy Awards for “Beauty and the Beast” with Celine Dion and “A Whole New World” with Regina Belle from Disney’s “Aladdin.” The Guardian described the songs as Oscar-winning Disney film duets, but listed the collaborators in the opposite order, naming “Beauty and the Beast” with Regina Belle and “A Whole New World” with Celine Dion.

Born and raised in South Carolina, Bryson became a leading voice in R&B, soul and adult contemporary music. CBS identified him as a Greenville native with deep ties to Georgia and Atlanta’s music scene. The Guardian reported that he began his career in the 1970s with the group Moses Dillard and the Tex-Town Display before Atlanta label Bang Records signed him as a solo artist.

Bryson released his debut LP, “Peabo,” in 1976, composing most of its songs himself, according to CBS. He signed with Capitol Records in 1977. His first major crossover hit came in 1983 with Roberta Flack on “Tonight, I Celebrate My Love,” a duet that helped carry his voice beyond R&B audiences.

Across a decades-long career, Bryson received eight Grammy nominations, CBS reported. Beyond the Disney songs, his hits included “If Ever You’re in My Arms Again” and “Can You Stop the Rain.”

His health had drawn public concern before. The Guardian reported that Bryson had a stroke in late May and was placed under medical care. “At this time, the family requests privacy as they navigate this deeply personal moment together,” a statement from his representative said at the time. “The thoughts, prayers and love of friends and fans are welcomed and deeply appreciated.”

In 2019, Bryson made a full recovery after having a heart attack, The Guardian reported.

His family’s statement emphasized the reach of his music and the response from those who followed his career. “His legacy and music will live on for generations to come,” the family said.