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Peabo Bryson, the velvet-voiced balladeer and Grammy-winning icon behind some of music’s most cherished love songs, has passed away at 75. His representative confirmed the news to Billboard, noting that the singer had been receiving medical care following a stroke suffered over the weekend.
“It is with profound sadness and broken hearts that the family of Peabo Bryson — the soulful vocalist and songwriter behind so many unforgettable melodies — announces his transition,” his family shared in a statement. “He passed away peacefully on the evening of Tuesday, June 2, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones.”
Throughout a distinguished career spanning several decades, Bryson became a staple of the Billboard Hot 100, securing 12 entries and three top-10 hits. He reached the pinnacle of the charts in 1993 with his timeless rendition of “A Whole New World (Aladdin’s Theme),” performed alongside Regina Belle. This followed his earlier success in 1992, when his collaboration with a young Celine Dion on “Beauty and the Beast” climbed to No. 9.
These iconic Disney tracks earned Bryson his two Grammy Awards, winning consecutive honors for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal in 1993 and 1994.
Bryson’s influence on R&B radio was equally significant. Between 1976 and 1993, he notched 41 hits on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, 10 of which reached the top 10, including the No. 1 classics “Show & Tell” and “Can You Stop the Rain.” His album catalog was similarly robust, boasting 21 entries on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart, highlighted by the chart-topping success of Can You Stop the Rain.
“We are deeply moved by the overwhelming outpouring of prayers and support from fans and colleagues worldwide,” his family added. “While our grief is immense, we take solace in knowing how profoundly Peabo was cherished and the enduring mark he left through his music. His legacy will undoubtedly resonate for generations.”
Bryson recently celebrated a major milestone, sharing a heartwarming tribute on social media this past April to commemorate his 75th birthday. Alongside a collection of family photos, he expressed his gratitude to fans, writing, “This is 75!! Thank you for all my well wishes,” accented with a heart-hands emoji.
