Peabo Bryson, the R&B singer behind the Disney duets, has died at the age of 75 US news

Peabo Bryson, R&B singer best known as the voice behind Disney’s Oscar-winning film. Beauty and the Beast and Celine Dion, and A Whole New World and Regina Belle from Aladdin, is dead. He was 75 years old.

Bryson, who won two Grammy Awards, died Tuesday, days after suffering a stroke, his family said.

“Although our hearts are broken, we are encouraged to know how much love Peabo had and how many lives he touched with his words and his generous spirit,” the family said. “His legacy and music will live on for generations to come.”

Internationally known for his classic Disney hits, Bryson also forged a career spanning more than five decades as one of R&B’s greatest hits, recording hits including Feel the Fire, I’m So Into You and Can You Stop the Rain.

“For more than five decades, Peabo’s incredible voice has been the soundtrack to life,” the couple said. “His music brought many generations to joyous celebrations, great love stories and moments of comfort and inspiration.”

Born and raised in South Carolina, the singer, songwriter and musician began his career with Moses Dillard’s band and Tex-Town Display in the 1970s. Soon after, Atlanta-based Bang Records signed him as a solo artist.

He recorded for Capitol, Elektra and Columbia Records and became one of music’s most sought after artists. Besides Belle and Dion, he has collaborated with artists including Roberta Flack and Natalie Cole.

His song with Flack – Tonight, I Celebrate My Love – became one of the most popular love songs of the 1980s, while If Ever You’re in My Arms Again helped expand his audience beyond R&B radio. He later scored No. 1 R&B hits with Show & Tell and Can You Stop the Rain.

Beyond music, Bryson appeared in productions including Raisin, The Wiz, and Porgy and Bess. In 2018, he returned with Stand for Love, his 21st studio album, produced by the producer duo Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis.

Bryson suffered a stroke in late May and was hospitalized.

“At this time, the couple requests privacy as they travel together,” a statement from her representative read at the time. “Thoughts, prayers and love from friends and fans are welcomed and greatly appreciated.”

In 2019, Bryson recovered from a heart attack.

Comedian and television host Loni Love said she worked with Bryson on a cruise ship last year and talked to him for hours on the deck one night after seeing him alone.

“She shared amazing stories, spoke passionately about her music, and loved her art,” she wrote on Tuesday. “I’m so happy to have this special time with him.”

The Bryson family said a memorial and celebration of life arrangements will be announced at a later date.