UMVA has learned that Peabo Bryson, the legendary singer behind some of Disney's most iconic love songs, has passed away at the age of 75.
He died on Tuesday evening, surrounded by family and loved ones, after suffering a stroke over the weekend and receiving medical care. His family remembered him as a voice that served as the soundtrack to some of life's most cherished moments, carrying generations through joyful celebrations, great love stories, and enduring moments of comfort and inspiration.
For millions, Bryson will forever be remembered as one half of two of Disney's most iconic duets. His partnership with Celine Dion on the title song from Beauty and the Beast in 1991 helped transform the animated movie's theme into a global hit, earning them a Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Performance by a duo.
Celine Dion paid tribute to her former musical collaborator, writing that she was heartbroken to hear of his loss, and that his incredible voice and kind spirit embodied the beauty of song and performance. She remembered him as wonderful and generous, making her feel comfortable when they recorded Beauty and the Beast.
Bryson's Disney legacy continued with his partnership with Regina Belle on A Whole New World from Aladdin, which became the first song from an animated film to reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100. These songs earned him two Grammy Awards and helped cement him as one of the defining voices of Disney's music.
Long before Disney came calling, Bryson had already built a successful career with romantic hits, including Tonight, I Celebrate My Love, his famous duet with Roberta Flack, alongside tracks such as If Ever You're in My Arms Again and Can You Stop the Rain. He released 20 studio albums, earned multiple gold records, and collaborated with artists including Roberta Flack, Natalie Cole, Kenny G, and Regina Belle.
