Grammy Award-winning singer Peabo Bryson, most famous for lending his vocals to the Disney song Beauty and the Beast, has died aged 75.
The R&B star suffered a stroke on Sunday and a representative said he “transitioned peacefully” on Tuesday evening.
“For more than five decades, Peabo’s extraordinary voice served as the soundtrack to some of life’s most cherished moments," the representative said.
“His music carried generations through joyful celebrations, great love stories and enduring moments of comfort and inspiration, creating a legacy that will forever live in the hearts of those who loved him and the countless lives he touched through song.”
He was “surrounded by the love of his family and those closest to him” as he died.
His relatives said they were “tremendously moved by the outpouring of love, prayers and support from fans, friends, and colleagues around the world”.
“In this deeply difficult moment, the family asks for privacy as they mourn the loss of a beloved husband, father, family member, friend and artist whose impact extended far beyond the stage.
“While our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing how deeply Peabo was loved and how many lives were touched by his voice and his generous spirit. His legacy and music will live on for generations to come.”
Bryson is survived by his wife Tanya Bonaface Bryson, and his two children.
A memorial and a celebration of life will be arranged for a later date, his loved ones said.
Bryson Peabo first launched his professional career straight after high school, and released his first album, Peabo, in 1976.
He signed with Capitol Records a year later, and then moved to Elektra Records in 1984.
As part of his deal with Elektra, Peabo recorded the theme song for soap opera One Life to Life in 1985.
He later moved back to Capitol, and released more than 20 albums, including Can You Stop the Rain, Feel the Fire and Tonight, I Celebrate My Love, with Robert Flack.
He was nominated for various Grammy awards over the span of his career, and won two of the gongs – the first with Celine Dion in 1993 for best pop performance by a duo or group for Beauty and the Beast.
He won the same award the following year, alongside Regina Belle, for Aladdin.
Bryson’s final album was released in 2018 – Stand for Love – through Perspective Records.
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