Peabo Bryson, Grammy-winning R&B singer of Disney classics, dies at 75

Taijuan Moorman and KiMi Robinson, USA TODAY Wed, June 3, 2026 at 12:25 AM UTC

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Peabo Bryson, the Grammy-winning singer behind multiple R&B and Disney hits, has died. He was 75.

The singer "transitioned peacefully" at 5 p.m. on June 2, while "surrounded by the love of his family and those closest to him," according to a statement from Bryson's family that was provided to USA TODAY.

"We are tremendously moved by the outpouring of love, prayers and support from fans, friends, and colleagues around the world," the statement said. "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."

The news comes two days after Variety broke the news that Bryson was being treated after experiencing a stroke. Bryson's representative confirmed to USA TODAY on June 1 that he was "currently under medical care" following the medical emergency.

The South Carolina-born musician was best known for the Disney hit duets "Beauty and the Beast" with Celine Dion and "A Whole New World" with singer-songwriter Regina Belle from the "Aladdin" soundtrack, which won back-to-back Grammys for best pop performance by a duo or group with vocals in 1993 and 1994, respectively. Both tracks were also nominated for record of the year.

Bryson also had a string of hit singles with the late Roberta Flack, including "Tonight, I Celebrate My Love" and "You're Looking Like Love to Me" from the 1983 duet album "Born To Love," as well as "As Long as There's Christmas."

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He was also known for several hit solo ballads, including "If Ever You're in My Arms Again" and "Can You Stop the Rain." "Can You Stop the Rain" was nominated for best R&B vocal performance in 1992. His other Grammy-nominated songs include "Lost in the Night" and "Did You Ever Know."

Singer-songwriter Peabo Bryson attends the Thurgood Marshall College Fund 28th annual awards gala at Washington Hilton on Nov. 21, 2016, in Washington, D.C.

Bryson previously suffered a "mild" heart attack in 2019.

The singer's music has also garnered a Daytime Emmy nomination for outstanding original song, with Earl Rose for the 1993 "All My Children" track "I Found Love."

The singer has remained active through the years, with his most recent album, "Stand for Love," released in 2018.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Peabo Bryson dead – Disney singer dies at 75 following stroke

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