What is Peabo Bryson's Net Worth?
Peabo Bryson is an American singer and songwriter with a net worth of $2.5 million. Renowned for his romantic soul ballads, often performed as duets with female artists, Bryson's significant hits include 1983's "Tonight, I Celebrate My Love" with Roberta Flack. Additionally, his contributions to Disney's animated films "Beauty and the Beast" and "Aladdin" earned him two Grammy Awards. However, his career faced challenges, including issues with the IRS that led to the seizure of many possessions, including his Grammy Awards and an Atlanta mansion, to cover $1.2 million in back taxes.
Early Life
Born Robert Peapo Bryson on April 13, 1951, in Greenville, South Carolina, Peabo spent much of his early life on his grandfather's farm in Mauldin. His passion for music was nurtured by his mother, who frequently took the family to concerts featuring African-American musicians.
Career Beginnings
By age 14, Bryson had his first professional music gig singing backup for the local group Al Freeman and the Upsetters. He later toured with Moses Dillard and the Tex-Town Display, catching the attention of Eddie Biscoe at Atlanta's Bang Records. Biscoe signed Bryson to the label as a writer, producer, and arranger, providing opportunities to work with various local bands.
Studio Albums
Bryson's recording career took off in 1976 with the release of his debut album, "Peabo," on the Bang label. In 1977, he signed with Capitol Records, releasing "Reaching for the Sky," featuring hit R&B singles "Feel the Fire" and the title track. His subsequent albums include "Crosswinds," "We're the Best of Friends" with Natalie Cole, "Paradise," "Turn the Hands of Time," "I Am Love," and "Don't Play with Fire." In 1983, he achieved one of his greatest successes with "Born to Love," a duet album with Roberta Flack, which included the hit "Tonight, I Celebrate My Love." His other notable works from the 80s and 90s include albums like "Take No Prisoners," "Quiet Storm," and "Can You Stop the Rain." Bryson's 2007 album "Missing You" marked his highest-charting release in 16 years, followed by "Stand for Love" in 2018 after a decade-long break.
Disney Songs
Bryson's contributions to Disney soundtracks remain some of his most celebrated works. He performed "Beauty and the Beast" with Celine Dion and "A Whole New World" from "Aladdin" with Regina Belle. Both songs won Academy Awards for Best Original Song in 1991 and 1992, respectively, and earned Bryson Grammy Awards for his performances.
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Other Notable Duets
Bryson's extensive career features numerous acclaimed duets. Besides Roberta Flack, he recorded "What You Won't Do for Love" with Natalie Cole, "Here We Go" with Minnie Riperton, "Without You" with Regina Belle, and "By the Time This Night is Over" with Kenny G. Additionally, he found success with "I Have Dreamed" from "The King and I," performed with Lea Salonga.
Tax Troubles
In 2003, Bryson faced legal issues due to tax evasion, reportedly owing over $1.2 million. The IRS seized many of his possessions, including his grand piano and Grammy Awards. Some of his friends later won the Grammy bids and returned them to Bryson.
Personal Life
Bryson was previously engaged several times, with fiancées including Juanita Leonard and Angela Thigpen. He eventually married former singer Tanya Boniface from the English girl group the 411. They have a son named Robert, and Bryson also has a daughter, Linda, from a previous relationship.
