Peabo Bryson, a renowned R&B singer with Grammy Awards to his name, has passed away at the age of 75. Bryson, best known for his duets on Disney classics such as ‘Beauty and the Beast’ and ‘A Whole New World’, died following a stroke, as confirmed by his family.
“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,” the family’s statement shared. “His legacy and music will live on for generations to come.”
Bryson’s impact on music spans over five decades, marked by hits like ‘Feel the Fire’, ‘I’m So Into You’, and ‘Can You Stop the Rain’. His family highlighted how his voice served as a backdrop for life’s significant moments.
“For more than five decades, Peabo’s extraordinary voice served as the soundtrack to some of life’s most cherished moments,” his family expressed. “His music carried generations through joyful celebrations, great love stories and enduring moments of comfort and inspiration.”
Originating from South Carolina, Bryson began with Moses Dillard and the Tex-Town Display in the 1970s, soon signing with Bang Records as a solo artist. His collaborations stretched from Roberta Flack to Natalie Cole, making him a sought-after duet partner. His duet ‘Tonight, I Celebrate My Love’ with Flack stood as an iconic love song during the 1980s.
Bryson’s career included ventures into stage productions like ‘Raisin’, ‘The Wiz’, and ‘Porgy and Bess’. His latest album release in 2018 was titled ‘Stand for Love’. Bryson’s health challenges included a stroke and a heart attack in prior years, yet he demonstrated resilience by recovering fully from a heart attack in 2019.
Comedian Loni Love reminisced about a heartfelt conversation with Bryson last year. “He shared incredible stories, spoke passionately about his music, and had such a deep love for his craft,” she commented.
The family has requested privacy during this period, with plans for memorial arrangements to be shared in due time.