R&B singer Peabo Bryson has died at 75 after suffering a stroke. His death was reported on June 2, 2026. Although the cause of death is currently unconfirmed, he had been hospitalized due to a stroke May 31.
His family shared the news saying, “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.” They also asked for privacy.
Bryson’s passing marks the end of a career that lasted more than five decades. He became known for romantic ballads and collaborations that crossed into pop and film music. His work reached wide audiences in the United States and internationally. Bryson was a two-time Grammy award winner also known for R&B.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Peabo Bryson was born in 1951 in Greenville, South Carolina. He began performing professionally in the 1970s. He signed recording deals early in his career and developed a steady presence in R&B music.
Peabo Bryson – YouTube, E! News
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He built his reputation through smooth vocal delivery and emotional ballads. His early albums established him as a consistent figure in adult contemporary R&B. He gained more recognition as his career progressed into the 1980s.
Major Solo Hits and Commercial Success
Bryson reached broad radio success with several solo recordings. “If Ever You’re in My Arms Again” became one of his most recognizable hits. He also recorded “Can You Stop the Rain,” which strengthened his adult contemporary appeal.
These songs helped position him as a crossover artist. He moved between R&B charts and mainstream radio without shifting away from his core style. His voice became associated with slow ballads and romantic themes.
Duets and Major Collaborations
Bryson also built a strong reputation through duets. He recorded “Tonight, I Celebrate My Love” with Roberta Flack. The song became a major radio success during the 1980s and remains one of his most widely known collaborations.
Roberta Flack and Peabo Bryson performing “Tonight I Celebrate My Love” – YouTube, RHINO
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He later expanded his reach through additional partnerships. His duet work became a defining part of his catalog and helped him maintain long-term visibility in the music industry.
Disney Soundtrack Success
Bryson reached international recognition through two major Disney film songs. He performed “Beauty and the Beast” with Céline Dion for the 1991 animated film Beauty & the Beast.
At the time of recording “Beauty & the Beast” (1991), Celine Dion was actually considered an “up & coming” singer. Disney was concerned she may not have been a “strong enough” pull to do the song alone. They asked the seasoned and well-known R&B star, Peabo Bryson to sing the… https://t.co/NuVA2LWIxa pic.twitter.com/h7mltKkQ5P
— Sassington, M.C. (@MissSassbox) June 2, 2026
He also recorded “A Whole New World” with Regina Belle for Aladdin. Both songs won major awards and became closely tied to Disney’s musical identity in the 1990s.
These recordings significantly expanded his audience. They also placed his voice in widely recognized film soundtracks that continue to receive airplay.
Later career and health history
Bryson continued performing in concerts and special events in later decades. He reduced his recording output but remained active on stage.
He suffered a heart attack in 2019 before returning again to performing.
Bryson had several upcoming performances scheduled before his death. He was set to perform four shows at Yoshi’s in Oakland for August 2026. The shows were part of an intimate run at the jazz club rather than a large tour.
Summary
Peabo Bryson had a long public career that spanned multiple eras of popular music. His recordings connected R&B, pop, and film audiences across several decades. Bryson’s career included solo success, major duets, and award-winning film songs. He maintained relevance across shifting music trends while staying rooted in ballad-driven R&B. His death at 75 leaves behind his wife Tanya Boniface, two children, and several grandchildren.
