Peabo Bryson, the beloved R&B balladeer whose voice helped define some of Disney’s most unforgettable love songs, has died at the age of 75. The singer, best known for his soaring performances on Beauty and the Beast and A Whole New World, died on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, surrounded by his family, just days after suffering a stroke.

His family confirmed the heartbreaking news in a statement, saying they were deeply moved by the love, prayers, and support that had poured in from fans, friends, and colleagues around the world. They said that although their hearts were broken, they found comfort in knowing how deeply Bryson was loved and how many people were touched by his voice and generous spirit.

Only two days before his death, a representative shared that Bryson had suffered a stroke and was under medical care. At the time, his family asked for privacy as they faced the deeply personal moment together, while welcoming the thoughts, prayers, and love of those who admired him.

Bryson was born Robert Peapo Bryson in Greenville, South Carolina, in 1951. His love of music started early, and by his teenage years he was already performing professionally. After working with local groups and touring with Moses Dillard and the Tex-Town Display, he launched a solo career in 1976 with his debut album Peabo.

Over the decades, he became one of R&B’s most recognizable romantic voices. His career included hit songs such as Reaching for the Sky, Feel the Fire, I’m So Into You, If Ever You’re in My Arms Again, Show & Tell, and Can You Stop the Rain. He also became known as one of music’s great duet partners, recording memorable collaborations with Roberta Flack, Natalie Cole, Regina Belle, Céline Dion, and Kenny G.

His partnership with Roberta Flack produced one of the defining love songs of the 1980s, Tonight, I Celebrate My Love. Their chemistry helped establish Bryson as a master of the romantic duet, a role that would later bring him global recognition through Disney’s animated classics.