Singer Celine Dion said she is heartbroken after the death of her duet partner Peabo Bryson, the R&B legend who co‑starred with her on the Grammy‑winning soundtrack for the Disney film Beauty and the Beast.
"His incredible voice and his kind spirit embodied the beauty of song and performance," Dion tweeted, adding that Bryson had "made me so comfortable" when she first started singing in English. She also praised him as a generous collaborator who helped launch her career.
Bryson, 75, passed away on Tuesday surrounded by family and loved ones. While the cause of death has not been made public, the family confirmed that he had suffered a stroke over the weekend and was receiving medical care. He had been celebrated across four decades with hits such as "Feel the Fire," "I’m So Into You," and "If Ever You’re In My Arms Again."
The 1991 duet brought "Beauty and the Beast" to the charts, earning Dion a first US and UK top‑10 hit and a Grammy Award. Bryson would later win a Grammy with his rendition of "A Whole New World" from the film Aladdin with Regina Belle.
He was so wonderful and generous to me all those years ago, when we recorded Beauty and the Beast, says Dion. He will remain for me always as a real symbol of the joy that music has brought to my life. His voice and his talent will be missed…
Bryson’s family released a statement that noted his career had "served as the soundtrack to some of life's most cherished moments" and that "his music carried generations through joyful celebrations, great love stories and enduring moments of comfort and inspiration." They added that his legacy would live on for future generations.
Last year, Bryson was performing with Jeffrey Osborne in Georgia and had planned several shows for his Golden Touch tour, marking five decades in the music industry. He had recently celebrated his 75th birthday with photos shared on social media, grieving fans worldwide applauded his lasting impact.
