Peabo Bryson, singer behind 'A Whole New World' and 'Beauty and the Beast', dies aged 75
Singer Peabo Bryson, who had hits with two beloved Disney tracks, has died aged 75.
Bryson had a decade-spanning career, but is perhaps best known for recording Disney duets ‘Beauty and the Beast’ with Céline Dion, and ‘A Whole New World’ with Regina Belle for Aladdin.
The family of the eight-time Grammy nominee said he died on Tuesday (2 June) after suffering a stroke.
"For more than five decades, Peabo's extraordinary voice served as the soundtrack to some of life's most cherished moments," his family said in a statement to the BBC.
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"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.
“We are tremendously moved by the outpouring of love, prayers and support from fans, friends, and colleagues around the world.
“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 won two Grammy awards, in 1992 and 1993, for 'Beauty and the Beast' and 'A Whole New World', respectively.
In 2017, Bryson opened up about recording with hit-maker Dion, revealing that the singer had initially been set to record ‘Beauty and the Beast’ solo, and had been a little ‘apprehensive’ until they got into the studio.
“I looked across at her, and she looked back at me and what went on from the point of becoming relaxed was extremely intimate,” he told CBC.
“You can't buy that. You can record it, though.”
Bryson also made music history after ‘A Whole New World’ became the first song from an animated movie to hit number one on Billboard’s Hot 100.
Alongside his Oscar-winning work with Disney, Bryson also recorded popular ballads, including ‘Can You Stop the Rain’, ‘Feel the Fire’, ‘Reaching for the Sky’, and ‘I’m So Into You’.
Throughout his career, Bryson released 20 studio albums from the 1970s to 2010s.
Bryson is survived by his wife, Tania Boniface and his two children.
Claire Reid