Peabo Bryson — the velvet-voiced balladeer whose songs became the soundtrack of love stories, childhood memories and cultural milestones — has died, his family announced. He was 75.
“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 read. “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.” The family shared earlier that he had suffered a stroke, though no cause of death was given.
Bryson’s warm tenor voice was unmistakable. For more than five decades, he carried that gift from the Southern stages of his youth to the global spotlight. He went on to become one of the most beloved vocalists in R&B and adult contemporary music.
He was born Robert Peapo Bryson on April 13, 1951 in Greenville, South Carolina. He grew up in a home where music was a refuge and foundation. By his teens, he was touring with local bands and sharpening the vocal control that would later define his career. His early albums in the 1970s introduced him as a rising romantic tenor, but it was the 1980s and early ’90s that cemented his place in music history.
Bryson became known as the king of the duet. His collaborations with Roberta Flack, Natalie Cole, Angela Bofill and Regina Belle produced some of the era’s most enduring love songs. “Tonight, I Celebrate My Love,” “You’re Looking Like Love to Me,” and “For You and I” became staples at weddings, anniversaries and quiet moments that didn’t need an audience.
He also enjoyed such hits as “Feel the Fire,” “Reaching for the Sky,” “If Ever You’re in My Arms Again” and “Can You Stop the Rain.”
But it was Disney that carried his voice into homes around the world. His duet with Celine Dion on “Beauty and the Beast” earned him his first Grammy. “A Whole New World,” performed with Regina Belle for Aladdin, earned his second — and became one of the most recognizable film ballads of all time. Those songs introduced him to a new generation.
Even as the industry shifted, Bryson remained committed to the craft. He continued recording, touring and mentoring younger artists, offering the same generosity that had been extended to him early in his career.
“We are tremendously moved by the outpouring of love, prayers and support from fans, friends, and colleagues around the world,” Bryson’s family statement continued. “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.”