"His legacy and music will live on for generations to come": Peabo Bryson's family honors acclaimed singer following his death at 75

Plymouth Jazz Festival - Tobago - Source: Getty
Plymouth Jazz Festival - Tobago - Source: Getty

Peabo Bryson, the Grammy-winning vocalist known for classic Disney ballads, has died at the age of 75.

In a heartfelt statement on June 2, the vocalist's family expressed their gratitude for the love that people had been showing to them and paid tribute to the memory of the legendary singer and his generosity.

“We are tremendously moved by the outpouring of love, prayers, and support from fans, friends, and colleagues around the world."
Peabo Bryson The Golden Touch Tour - Warren, MI - Source: Getty
Peabo Bryson The Golden Touch Tour - Warren, MI - Source: Getty

Amid their grief, the family has stated that they take solace in his artistic legacy and appreciation from his fans.

"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."

According to People, Peabo Bryson passed away on Tuesday while surrounded by family members. He had been rushed to the hospital days before as he was suffering from a stroke.

10th Annual Jazz In The Gardens: Celebrating 10 Years Of Great Music - Day 1 - Source: Getty
10th Annual Jazz In The Gardens: Celebrating 10 Years Of Great Music - Day 1 - Source: Getty

At the time, the Tonight, I Celebrate My Love hitmaker's team issued an official statement in light of his hospitalization.

"Two-time Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, and balladeer, Peabo Bryson — the voice behind the Oscar-winning Disney songs 'Beauty and the Beast' and 'A Whole New World' — has suffered a stroke and is currently under medical care."

The crooner's team continued:

"At this time, the family requests privacy as they navigate this deeply personal moment together. The thoughts, prayers, and love of friends and fans are welcomed and deeply appreciated."

Peabo Bryson's legacy: From Disney soundtracks to mainstream

Peabo Bryson became widely recognized for his unique vocals he demonstrated on Disney soundtrack duets, including the above-mentioned ballads from Beauty and the Beast and Aladdin.

Over the course of his extensive career since 1976, Bryson established himself as one of the most unique voices in the genre of R&B, thanks to his emotionally charged singing abilities along with his successful ventures that have earned him fame all across the world.

Bryson has 20 solo albums in his oeuvre, with five reaching the gold status.

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He has also worked together with some of the most renowned artists of the music world including Celine Dion, Regina Belle, Kenny G, Roberta Flack, and Natalie Cole.

Some of his solo hits also include If Ever You're in My Arms Again (1984), which was his first Top 10 song, as well as Feel the Fire, I'm So into You, Can You Stop the Rain, and many more.

The singer was instrumental in shaping the era of Disney movie songs in the 1990s by popularizing film soundtracks.

Bryson is survived by his wife, Tanya Boniface Bryson (a singer from Britain who was once part of a girl band), his daughter Linda from his former relationship, his son Robert, and three grandchildren.

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Edited by Gladys Altamarino