Peabo Bryson has died at the age of 75. The legendary R&B singer, known for his smooth soul ballads and unforgettable duets, died Tuesday, June 2, surrounded by family, according to People. His death came just days after he suffered a stroke.

Bryson became a household name through a string of romantic hits, but he was especially celebrated for his Disney collaborations. In 1991, he teamed up with Céline Dion for “Beauty and the Beast,” the title track from Disney’s animated classic, which became a major worldwide hit. The following year, Bryson and Regina Belle recorded “A Whole New World” from Aladdin, making history as the first song from an animated film to reach No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart.

“We are tremendously moved by the outpouring of love, prayers and support from fans, friends, and colleagues around the world,” Bryson’s family told PEOPLE. “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.”

Peabo Bryson was a Grammy-winning R&B and soul singer known for his smooth vocals and romantic ballads. Born Robert Peapo “Peabo” Bryson on April 13, 1951, in Greenville, South Carolina, he began performing in local bands before launching a successful solo career in the 1970s.

Bryson became one of the biggest adult contemporary and R&B stars of the 1980s and 1990s with hits including “If Ever You’re in My Arms Again,” “Can You Stop the Rain,” and “Feel the Fire.” He was especially known for his popular duets with female singers such as Roberta Flack, Regina Belle, and Celine Dion.

He reached worldwide fame through his Disney soundtrack performances. Bryson and Regina Belle recorded “A Whole New World” for Aladdin, which won the Academy Award and Grammy Award for Best Original Song. He also teamed with Celine Dion on the title track for Beauty and the Beast, another massive hit that became closely associated with Disney’s animated classics.

Over his decades-long career, Bryson earned multiple Grammy Awards and released more than 20 albums. Known for his rich tenor voice and emotional delivery, he remains one of the most respected performers in R&B and adult contemporary music.

According to People, Bryson suffered a heart attack in 2019 but later fully recovered.

 

He became a father in 1968 with the birth of his daughter, Linda. In 2010, Bryson married Tanya Boniface, a former member of the British girl group The 411, and the couple welcomed a son, Robert, in 2018.

Bryson is survived by his wife and his two children.