Grammy-winning R&B singer Peabo Bryson died Tuesday in Marietta, Georgia, at the age of 75 [1, 3].
Bryson's death marks the loss of a defining voice in modern cinema, specifically known for his collaborations with Disney on iconic film soundtracks.
According to a family spokesperson, Bryson died in Marietta, Georgia, after suffering a stroke over the weekend [2]. The announcement was made on June 2, 2026 [1].
Bryson earned international recognition for his work on Disney classics, including the duets “Beauty and the Beast” and “A Whole New World.” His career spanned decades of R&B and pop music, cementing his status as a premier ballad singer.
Family members described the singer's impact in a statement. "He was a generous spirit who touched many lives," the family said [1].
His professional team also reacted to the news. "We are heartbroken by the loss of a true legend," a manager said [3].
Bryson, a native of Greenville, was recognized throughout the industry for his vocal range and his ability to bridge the gap between traditional R&B and mainstream movie scores. His contributions to the Disney canon helped define the sound of the studio's animated renaissance, a period of massive commercial and critical success for the company.
“He was a generous spirit who touched many lives.”
The death of Peabo Bryson removes one of the most recognizable voices of the 1990s animation era. Because his work was tied to global Disney franchises, his influence extends beyond R&B charts into the permanent cultural fabric of family entertainment and cinematic history.
