Grammy Award-winning R&B singer Peabo Bryson dies aged 75
By Katemarthason Okudo, June 3, 2026Grammy Award-winning American singer and songwriter Peabo Bryson has died at the age of 75.
According to his family statement and reports also covered by ABC News, Bryson passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, surrounded by loved ones. His death came just days after he suffered a stroke.
His family shared the news in an emotional statement:
“With broken hearts and profound sadness, the family of two-time Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, and balladeer Peabo Bryson announces his passing,” his family has said in a statement, adding that his extraordinary voice had served as the soundtrack to some of life’s most cherished moments for more than five decades.
The statement reflected on his long-standing influence in music and the emotional connection his voice created with fans across generations.
Career highlights and achievements
Robert Peabo Bryson was born on April 13, 1951, in Greenville, South Carolina. He developed an early interest in music that would later shape a career spanning more than five decades. From humble beginnings, he slowly built his name in the R&B and soul music scene, eventually becoming one of the most recognisable voices in contemporary adult music.
Bryson’s career was defined by a series of romantic ballads and powerful collaborations that earned him global recognition. He won two Grammy Awards in 1992 and 1993 for his work on iconic Disney songs, including “Beauty and the Beast” with Céline Dion and “A Whole New World” with Regina Belle from Disney’s Aladdin. The latter became a worldwide success and reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Beyond his Disney achievements, he delivered several memorable hits, including “If Ever You’re in My Arms Again,” “Can You Stop the Rain,” “Feel the Fire,” and “Tonight, I Celebrate My Love,” his duet with Roberta Flack. His smooth vocal delivery and emotional style made him a standout figure in R&B music.
Legacy in music
Over the course of his career, Bryson released more than 20 albums and worked with some of the most respected names in the industry, including Roberta Flack, Natalie Cole, Regina Belle, Kenny G, and Céline Dion.
His influence went beyond R&B, shaping the sound of adult contemporary music and leaving a lasting mark on film soundtracks that continue to be widely celebrated. His music remains associated with themes of love, connection, and timeless storytelling.
Remembering a voice that defined generations
Although the cause of death has not been released publicly, Bryson suffered a stroke over the weekend and had been receiving medical care. As tributes continue to pour in, Bryson is being remembered for a voice that carried emotion and depth across decades.
He was set to perform several shows for his Golden Touch tour later this year, in celebration of his five decades in the music industry. His contribution to music, from soulful ballads to award-winning film songs, has left a lasting legacy that continues to resonate with fans around the world.