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R&B Legend Peabo Bryson, Voice of Disney Hits "Beauty and the Beast" and "Whole New World," Dies at 75

Peabo Bryson, the acclaimed R&B singer known for his iconic performances of "Beauty and the Beast" and "A Whole New World," has passed away at 75. His family confirmed his death, though a cause of death was not disclosed.

Variety Music·Jun 2, 2026·via Variety Music

R&B Legend Peabo Bryson, Voice of Disney Hits "Beauty and the Beast" and "Whole New World," Dies at 75

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Jun 2, 2026 3:37pm PT

Peabo Bryson, Veteran R&B Singer of ‘Beauty and the Beast’ and ‘Whole New World,’ Dies at 75

By Jem Aswad

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Jem Aswad

Executive Editor, Music

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Peabo Bryson , the veteran R&B singer best known as the singer behind the Disney film hits “Beauty and the Beast” and “Whole New World,” has died, according to a statement from his family. No cause of death was cited, although the family announced on Sunday that he had suffered a stroke

“With broken hearts and profound sadness, the family of two-time Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter and balladeer, Peabo Bryson, announces his passing,” the statement reads in part. “He transitioned peacefully at 5:00 p.m. ET on the evening of Tuesday, June 2, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family and those closest to him.”