Peabo Bryson Passes Away at 75, Leaving a Legacy in Music

Peabo Bryson, the two-time Grammy Award-winning R&B singer recognized for his memorable Disney film duets, has passed away at the age of 75. According to his family, Bryson died on Tuesday evening after suffering a stroke a few days earlier. “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 expressed. “His legacy and music will live on for generations to come.”

Known internationally for his Disney classic duets, Bryson built a prolific career as one of R&B’s leading balladeers over five decades. He captivated audiences with hits such as “Feel the Fire,” “I’m So Into You,” and “Can You Stop the Rain.” His family noted, “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.”

Born and raised in South Carolina, Bryson began his career in the 1970s with the group Moses Dillard and the Tex-Town Display. Shortly thereafter, Atlanta’s Bang Records signed him as a solo artist. Over his career, he recorded with major labels such as Capitol, Elektra, and Columbia Records, becoming one of music’s most sought-after duet partners. In addition to Belle and Dion, Bryson collaborated with artists like Roberta Flack and Natalie Cole. His duet with Flack, “Tonight, I Celebrate My Love,” became an iconic love song of the 1980s, while “If Ever You’re in My Arms Again” helped him reach a wider audience beyond R&B radio.

Bryson’s talents also extended to the stage, where he appeared in productions including “Raisin,” “The Wiz,” and “Porgy and Bess.” In 2018, he released his 21st studio album “Stand for Love,” produced by celebrated duo Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. Following a stroke in late May, Bryson received medical care. At that time, his representatives requested privacy, stating, “The thoughts, prayers, and love of friends and fans are welcomed and deeply appreciated.” Despite facing health challenges, he had previously made a full recovery from a heart attack in 2019.

Comedian and television host Loni Love recently recounted a joyful experience working with Bryson on a cruise ship. In a social media post, she shared, “He shared incredible stories, spoke passionately about his music, and had such a deep love for his craft. I am so grateful to have had that special moment with him.” Bryson’s family plans to announce memorial and celebration-of-life details in the near future.

Updates to this article included a correction of the duet partners in Bryson’s famous Disney songs and a corrected misspelling of “Aladdin.”