Peabo Bryson Dies at 75: R&B Singer Behind Disney Classics ‘Aladdin’ and ‘Beauty and the Beast’

Peabo Bryson, the Grammy Award-winning R&B singer and songwriter known for his smooth soul ballads and celebrated duets, has died at the age of 75. Born Robert Peapo Bryson, he was widely recognized for his distinctive voice and for helping create some of the most memorable love songs in popular music.

Bryson became especially famous for his duet “A Whole New World” with Regina Belle from Disney’s Aladdin, as well as his duet with Celine Dion on “Beauty and the Beast” from the 1991 animated film of the same name. Those songs helped define a generation of soundtrack ballads and remain closely associated with his career.

According to reports, Bryson died on Tuesday, June 2, after suffering a stroke days earlier. His death marks the loss of one of the most recognizable voices in R&B and adult contemporary music, with a career that spanned decades and included both solo work and collaborations with some of the biggest names in the industry.

In a statement shared with People, Bryson’s family said they were deeply moved by the love and support they had received from fans, friends, and colleagues around the world. They described him as someone whose voice and generous spirit touched many lives, and said they found comfort in knowing how much he was loved. The family added that his music and legacy will continue for generations.

Bryson’s career was built on elegance, emotional delivery, and a gift for interpreting romantic material in a way that connected with audiences across generations. His recordings earned him widespread admiration and multiple honors, including Grammy recognition. He was admired not only for his vocal talent but also for the warmth and sincerity he brought to his performances.

Over the years, Bryson became a staple of R&B, pop, and film music, with songs that crossed genre boundaries and found success around the world. His work on Disney soundtracks introduced him to younger listeners while also reinforcing his status as a beloved performer among longtime fans. His ability to elevate a song with feeling and restraint made him one of the defining voices of romantic duet performance.

News of his death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from admirers who grew up listening to his music and from artists who were influenced by his style. For many listeners, Bryson’s songs remain tied to major life moments, film memories, and the enduring appeal of classic soul.

Peabo Bryson leaves behind a musical legacy defined by timeless ballads, unforgettable collaborations, and a voice that became synonymous with love songs. His contributions to R&B and soundtrack history ensure that his music will continue to be heard and remembered for years to come.