About the song
“Beauty and the Beast,” performed by Celine Dion and Peabo Bryson, is one of the most beloved duets in music history. This enchanting song, written by acclaimed composer Alan Menken with lyrics by the legendary Howard Ashman, was originally recorded in 1991 for Disney’s animated film Beauty and the Beast. The movie version was sung by Angela Lansbury in her role as Mrs. Potts, but it was the soaring, romantic rendition by Dion and Bryson that became an enduring classic. Released as a single in 1991, this version of “Beauty and the Beast” captured audiences worldwide with its lush orchestration and the undeniable chemistry between Dion’s crystalline vocals and Bryson’s soulful tone.
This duet achieved significant success, climbing to No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping adult contemporary charts. It was later included in Dion’s self-titled album Celine Dion (1992), where it stood out as a centerpiece that showcased her vocal maturity and versatility. Winning both the Academy Award for Best Original Song and the Grammy Award for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals, “Beauty and the Beast” solidified Dion and Bryson’s place in the annals of pop music history.
Not only did this song elevate the popularity of the Disney film, but it also became a staple in Dion’s career, marking one of her first major international successes. The song’s delicate yet powerful melody, coupled with poetic lyrics about love and acceptance, speaks to listeners of all ages. Dion’s vocal range and Bryson’s emotive delivery bring a depth that transformed this song into a universal love anthem.
For fans of timeless ballads and Disney classics, “Beauty and the Beast” remains an essential listen. It’s a reminder of how music can transcend the screen and touch hearts, bringing a story to life through sound alone. This song opened doors for Celine Dion, setting her on a path to becoming one of the best-selling artists of all time. Bryson, already a celebrated R&B artist, added a new dimension to his career with this iconic collaboration. Decades later, their rendition of “Beauty and the Beast” continues to enchant audiences, embodying the magic of true love and the beauty of classic music.