By Ayo Onikoyi
Legendary American R&B singer-songwriter Peabo Bryson, whose soulful duets and romantic ballads defined generations of music lovers, has died at the age of 75.
Bryson passed away on June 2, 2026, surrounded by family and loved ones, days after suffering a stroke. His family announced his death in a statement, describing him as a beloved artiste whose voice touched millions around the world.
The two-time Grammy Award winner enjoyed a career spanning more than five decades and became one of the most sought-after duet partners in contemporary music. While he scored numerous solo hits, including “If Ever You’re in My Arms Again,” “Can You Stop the Rain,” and “Feel the Fire,” it was his collaborations with some of music’s biggest stars that cemented his place in popular culture.
Bryson’s most celebrated duets included “Tonight, I Celebrate My Love” with Roberta Flack, a romantic classic that remains one of the defining love songs of the 1980s. He also recorded memorable collaborations with Natalie Cole, Kenny G, and Whitney Houston, earning a reputation as one of R&B’s finest vocal partners.
However, his global fame soared in the early 1990s through two Disney soundtrack classics. His duet “Beauty and the Beast” with Celine Dion earned a Grammy Award in 1993, while “A Whole New World,” recorded with Regina Belle for the animated film Aladdin, became a worldwide sensation, topping the Billboard Hot 100 and winning another Grammy.
Born Robert Peapo Bryson in Greenville, South Carolina, the singer began his professional journey with the group Moses Dillard and the Tex-Town Display before launching a successful solo career in the 1970s. Over the years, he released more than 20 albums and earned eight Grammy nominations, becoming known for his rich baritone voice and emotionally resonant performances.
Bryson’s final days were marked by health challenges. According to family members and representatives, he suffered a stroke in late May and was placed under medical care. Despite an earlier recovery from a heart attack in 2019, the veteran singer’s condition deteriorated, and he died peacefully with family by his side. His death came just weeks before a series of scheduled performances in Oakland, California.
In a heartfelt tribute, his family said they were comforted by the immense love shown by fans worldwide and noted that Bryson’s music had served as the soundtrack to countless celebrations, romances and cherished memories.
With his unforgettable voice, timeless love songs and landmark duets, Bryson leaves behind a musical legacy that will continue to resonate across generations.
