Peabo Bryson, the Grammy-winning American singer best known for the hit theme song from Disney’s 1991 animated film Beauty and the Beast, has died at the age of 75 after suffering a stroke.

His family confirmed that the celebrated vocalist passed away on Tuesday, just days after the medical emergency.

Announcing his death in a statement, the family said: “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. For more than five decades, Peabo’s extraordinary voice served as the soundtrack to some of life’s most cherished moments.

“His music carried generations through joyful celebrations, great love stories and enduring moments of comfort and inspiration.”

Born and raised in South Carolina, Bryson began his musical career in the 1970s with Moses Dillard and the Tex-Town Display before launching a successful solo career after signing with Atlanta-based Bang Records.

Over the years, he recorded for major labels including Capitol, Elektra and Columbia Records, becoming one of the music industry’s most sought-after duet partners.

Bryson achieved global recognition through his duet with Celine Dion on Beauty and the Beast, the theme song for Disney’s animated classic. The song earned him one of his two Grammy Awards and helped establish him as one of the most recognisable voices in contemporary adult music.

His catalogue of hits also included Feel the Fire, I’m So Into You, If Ever You’re in My Arms Again, Show & Tell, and Can You Stop the Rain.

Paying tribute, Dion said she was “heartbroken” by Bryson’s death.

“His incredible voice and his kind spirit embodied the beauty of song and performance,” she wrote on X.