Peabo Bryson, Voice Behind Disney’s Biggest Love Songs, Dies at 75

Few voices could turn a love song into a lasting memory quite like Peabo Bryson's. Whether fans first heard him through a Disney classic or an R&B radio favorite, his smooth vocals became part of the soundtrack for generations. Now, the celebrated singer's remarkable career has come to an end.

Peabo Bryson, the veteran R&B singer best known as the singer behind the Disney film hits “Beauty and the Beast” and “A Whole New World,” has died, according to a statement from his family, as reported by Variety. No cause of death was cited, although the family announced on Sunday that he had suffered a stroke.

“With broken hearts and profound sadness, the family of two-time Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter and balladeer, Peabo Bryson, announces his passing,” the statement reads in part. “He transitioned peacefully at 5:00 p.m. ET on the evening of Tuesday, June 2, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family and those closest to him.”

“For more than five decades, Peabo’s extraordinary voice served as the soundtrack to some of life’s most cherished moments. His music carried generations through joyful celebrations, great love stories and enduring moments of comfort and inspiration, creating a legacy that will forever live in the hearts of those who loved him and the countless lives he touched through song.

“In this deeply difficult moment, the family asks for privacy as they mourn the loss of a beloved husband, father, family member, friend and artist whose impact extended far beyond the stage.

“We are tremendously moved by the outpouring of love, prayers and support from fans, friends, and colleagues around the world,” the family shared. “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 75 and became known for his rich voice and memorable duet ballads. He earned worldwide recognition through “Beauty and the Beast,” recorded with Celine Dion, and “A Whole New World,” his duet with Regina Belle from Disney’s Aladdin. He also recorded fan favorites including “Tonight, I Celebrate My Love,” “You’re Looking Like Love to Me” and “As Long as There’s Christmas.”

Still, Disney represented only one chapter of a career that stretched across more than five decades.

Born in South Carolina, Bryson began his musical journey in the 1970s as a member of Moses Dillard and the Tex-Town Display. He later signed with Atlanta's Bang Records as a solo artist, releasing his debut album in 1976 before moving to Capitol Records the following year.

Success came quickly. Bryson scored a string of R&B hits, including “Feel the Fire” in 1977, followed by “Reaching for the Sky,” “I’m So into You” and “Crosswinds.” By 1984, he had crossed into the pop charts with his first Top 10 hit, “If Ever You’re in My Arms Again.”

He followed with songs such as “Show and Tell” and “Can You Stop the Rain.” In 1985, Bryson also appeared on the soap opera One Life to Live, providing vocals for its theme song. That version later became the show's main theme and was featured on every episode for the next seven years.

If there was one thing Bryson did especially well, it was sharing the microphone.

His collaborations with female vocalists became a defining part of his career. In 1983, he teamed with Roberta Flack for the album Born to Love. He later found success with Angela Bofill on “For You and I,” along with several popular duets with Regina Belle and many of the songs that helped make him a household name.

Celebration of life and memorial arrangements will be announced at a later date.