Peabo Bryson, “Beauty and the Beast” Singer, Dead at 75

People are fondly remembering Peabo Bryson and the happiness his music brought to so many.

The R&B singer, famous for singing the pop versions of Disney classics like “Beauty and the Beast” and “A Whole New World,” passed away on June 2nd at the age of 75, his family announced. This followed news that he had recently suffered a stroke.

He passed away peacefully at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, with his family and loved ones by his side, according to a statement released to Variety.

For over fifty years, Peabo’s incredible voice provided the backdrop for many of life’s special occasions. His music accompanied people through happy times, love stories, and moments when they needed comfort and encouragement, leaving behind a lasting legacy that will always be remembered by those who loved him and were moved by his songs.

The family, including Tanya and Boniface, their 8-year-old son Robert, and Boniface’s daughter Linda, 58, from a previous marriage, have asked for privacy while they grieve.

We’ve been deeply touched by the incredible support, love, and prayers from people all over the world. Although we’re heartbroken, it’s comforting to know how much Peabo was loved and how many people he impacted with his kindness and music. His music and memory will continue to inspire for many years to come.

Bill Bryson, originally named Robert Peapo Bryson, was born in Greenville, South Carolina, on April 13, 1951, and started his career as a professional singer while still a teenager.

He had several popular R&B songs in the 1970s, like “Feel the Fire” and “I’m So into You.” Then, in 1983, he collaborated with Roberta Flack on the album Born to Love, which featured the song “Tonight I Celebrate My Love.”

Bryson’s career really took off when he sang duets on Disney songs. In 1991, he performed “Beauty and the Beast” with Céline Dion, and in 1992, he sang “A Whole New World” with Regina Belle. These performances won him Grammy Awards for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group in both years.

In a 2018 interview on Closer Look With Rose Scott, Bryson explained that Disney songs are open to interpretation. He said there are no rules for performing them – it’s up to the singer to bring their own personality and make the song their own.

And at the time, Bryson was ready to keep making his music entirely his for as long as he could.

He said he had a lot left to do and experience. There were countless stories to tell, ideas to explore, and things to celebrate.

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2026-06-03 03:17