Peabo Bryson, the veteran R&B singer best known as the singer behind the Disney film hits “Beauty and the Beast” and “Whole New World,” has died, according to a statement from his family. No cause of death was cited, although the family announced on Sunday that he had suffered a stroke.
“With broken hearts and profound sadness, the family of two-time Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter and balladeer, Peabo Bryson, announces his passing,” the statement reads in part. “He transitioned peacefully at 5:00 p.m. ET on the evening of Tuesday, June 2, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family and those closest to him.”
“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.”
“We are tremendously moved by the outpouring of love, prayers and support from fans, friends, and colleagues around the world,” the family shared. “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.”
Peabo Bryson’s family has asked for privacy as they mourn the loss of a beloved husband, father, family member, friend, and artist whose impact extended far beyond the stage.
While Disney fans know Bryson from singing with Regina Belle on “A Whole New World” from Aladdin and with Celine Dion on “Beauty and the Beast” from Beauty and the Beast, Bryson had an illustrious R&B career. He first stepped into the spotlight in the 1970s as a member of the group Moses Dillard and the Tex-Town Display. He was signed to the Atlanta indie label Bang Records as a solo artist and released his first album in 1976, and upscaled to Capitol the following year.
In 1977, Bryson released “Feel the Fire,” “Reaching for the Sky,” “I’m So into You,” and “Crosswinds” the following year. In 1983, he teamed up with Roberta Flack for their hit “Tonight, I Celebrate My Love,” which became a million-selling international hit. In 1984, he scored his first Top 10 pop hit, “If Ever You’re in My Arms Again,” and followed with “Show and Tell” and “Can You Stop the Rain.” In 1985, he appeared on the soap opera “One Life to Live,” adding vocals to its theme song. That version was subsequently adapted as the show’s main theme and ran on every episode for seven years.
Bryson won two Grammy Awards: one in 1992 for his performance of the song “Beauty and the Beast” with Celine Dion, and another in 1993 for “A Whole New World” with Regina Belle.
Daps Magic sends Peabo Bryson’s family our condolences during this time.
What did you think of Peabo Bryson’s musical career? Which of his songs is your favorite? Let us know in the comments.
