Grammy-Winning R&B Singer Peabo Bryson Dies at 75

Peabo Bryson, the celebrated R&B vocalist associated with Disney songs such as A Whole New World from Aladdin, died on Tuesday, his family said in a statement.

“He transitioned peacefully at 5:00 pm ET on the evening of Tuesday, June 2, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family and those closest to him,” the family said.

Bryson, who was born Robert Peapo Bryson, died less than a month after turning 75. His passing came after reports on Sunday that he had suffered a stroke.

His recording career stretched across several decades. Bryson first emerged in the 1970s with Moses Dillard and the Tex-Town Display before moving into solo work soon afterwards.

Among his best-known recordings was Beauty and the Beast with Celine Dion, made for Disney’s animated film of the same name. The song earned him a Grammy, and he later received another Grammy for A Whole New World.

Bryson was also known for ballads including Tonight, I Celebrate My Love, You’re Looking Like Love to Me and As Long as There’s Christmas. Over the course of his career, he issued more than 20 albums.

His family thanked fans for the many messages of support.

“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, creating a legacy that will forever live in the hearts of those who loved him and the countless lives he touched through song,” the statement said.