Peabo Bryson, the American singer best known for performing the theme song from Disney’s 1991 film ‘Beauty and the Beast’, has died at 75.
His family said in a statement that the well-known singer died on Tuesday, a few days after having a stroke.
“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,” the statement reads.
“His legacy and music will live on for generations to come. 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.”
Bryson grew up in South Carolina and started making music in the 1970s with Moses Dillard and the Tex-Town Display. He later began his solo career after signing with Bang Records in Atlanta.
Over the years, he recorded for major labels such as Capitol, Elektra, and Columbia Records. He also became known as one of the top duet partners in the music industry.
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Bryson is best known around the world for his duet with Celine Dion on ‘Beauty and the Beast,’ the theme song for Disney’s animated movie.
The song won him one of his two Grammy Awards and helped make him one of the most recognisable voices in adult contemporary music.
Over a career spanning more than five decades, Bryson established himself as one of R&B’s finest balladeers, delivering hits such as ‘Feel the Fire’, ‘I’m So Into You’, ‘If Ever You’re in My Arms Again’, ‘Show & Tell’ and ‘Can You Stop the Rain’.
In her tribute, Dion said she is “heartbroken” by Bryson’s death.
“His incredible voice and his kind spirit embodied the beauty of song and performance,” she wrote on X.
“He was so wonderful and generous to me all those years ago, when we recorded Beauty and the Beast. He made me so comfortable, as I was just learning to sing in English.
“He will remain for me always as a real symbol of the joy that music has brought to my life. His voice and his talent will be missed… My heart is with your family, and may you rest in peace, Peabo.”
