Canadian vocalist Celine Dion announced on her official Twitter account that she was "heartbroken" by the passing of American R&B singer Peabo Bryson, with whom she shared the iconic duet for Disney’s 1991 film Beauty and the Beast. Her tweet read, "His incredible voice and kind spirit embodied the beauty of song and performance," and linked to her original post.
Bryson died on Tuesday at the age of 75, surrounded by family, according to a statement from relatives. The cause of death has not yet been disclosed, but reports say the singer suffered a stroke over the weekend while receiving medical care.
The singer’s career spanned over four decades, producing classics such as Feel the Fire, It’s Time, and When You’re a Woman. He earned a Grammy with Dion for the duo’s Beauty and the Beast track, and another award the following year for his rendition of A Whole New World with Regina Belle.
In a family statement, it was emphasized that Bryson’s music had carried generations through celebrations and moments of comfort, and that his legacy would continue to inspire future listeners.
Until his death, Bryson was active on tour, performing a concert in Georgia earlier this spring and planning a celebratory Golden Touch tour to mark more than fifty years in the music industry. He also celebrated his 75th birthday in April, sharing photos on Instagram shows his ongoing connection with fans.
“He was so wonderful and generous to me all those years ago, when we recorded "Beauty and the Beast,"
Dion added, “He made me comfortable as I was just learning to sing in English. He will remain as a symbol of the joy that music brought me. His voice and talent will be missed, but my heart is with your family, and may you rest in peace, Peabo.”
