A timeless melody has lost one of its most cherished voices. Celine Dion has paid an emotional tribute to her longtime collaborator and friend, Peabo Bryson, who passed away on Tuesday, June 2, following a stroke.
In a poignant message shared via her Instagram Stories, Dion expressed her profound grief regarding the passing of the R&B legend, with whom she famously recorded the Academy Award-winning title track for Beauty and the Beast.
“I am absolutely heartbroken to learn that we have lost Peabo Bryson today,” Dion wrote, accompanying her words with a nostalgic snapshot of the pair during the 1992 American Music Awards. “His remarkable voice and gentle demeanor perfectly captured the essence of musical artistry. He was incredibly kind and supportive to me back when we first worked together; he truly helped me feel at ease while I was still navigating my early English recordings. He will always represent a beautiful moment of joy in my musical journey.”
Dion concluded her message by offering her condolences: “Your talent and your beautiful soul will be deeply missed. My thoughts are with your family. Rest in peace, dear Peabo.”
Representatives confirmed that the 75-year-old singer passed away after suffering a stroke over the weekend. He leaves behind his wife and children.
Dion was just 23 years old when she paired with Bryson for the iconic Disney duet. The song climbed to No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1992, marking a significant milestone in Bryson’s prolific career, which spanned a dozen entries on the chart.
“We are overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and prayers from friends, fans, and colleagues across the globe,” the Bryson family shared in an official statement. “While our hearts are heavy, we find solace in the fact that Peabo was so profoundly loved and that his voice touched so many lives.”
As she mourns this loss, Dion continues her preparations for her upcoming residency at Paris’ La Défense Arena this September, following the recent release of her single, “Dansons.”
