Englewood, NJ—–Peabo Bryson delivered a memorable evening of music at the Bergen PAC in Englewood on Friday night, showcasing his timeless vocal talent and smooth, soulful delivery. From the moment he took the stage, it was clear that the legendary artist still possesses the ability to captivate and transport his audience through his rich, velvety voice.
Opening with Sade’s “King of Sorrow,” Bryson immediately set the tone for the night, blending his signature style with a heartfelt interpretation of the iconic track. His voice effortlessly sailed through the poignant melody, and it was clear he had a deep connection to the song’s emotional depth.
Throughout the night, Bryson drew from a diverse catalog of classics, each performance showcasing his versatility. “Sweet Summer Days” brought a warm, nostalgic energy to the room, while his rendition of Quincy Jones’ “One Hundred Ways” highlighted his impeccable control and phrasing. The crowd was particularly engaged during his powerful version of “Baby, Come to Me”—a duet originally by Patti Austin and James Ingram—where Bryson’s vocals soared, making the track his own.
As the night continued, Bryson paid tribute to the greats who inspired him, including a stirring cover of “Lovely Day” by Bill Withers, where the audience joined in to sing along. The vibe was equally electric during his rendition of “Rock Steady” by Aretha Franklin, where Bryson’s soulful and impeccable timing evoked the spirit of the Queen of Soul herself.
One of the evening’s standout moments came with “What’s Love Got to Do With It,” originally written by Graham Lyle. Bryson’s version was raw and tender, breathing new life into this classic. He also offered a fresh take on Bobby Caldwell’s “What You Won’t Do for Love,” bringing a soulful, slightly jazzy flavor to the track that had the crowd swaying in their seats.
The magic continued with “Beauty and the Beast,” where Bryson’s connection to the beloved Disney song was palpable. His soaring vocals brought a sense of wonder to the performance, and the intimate venue made it all the more enchanting.
Later, Bryson took the audience on an energetic ride with a lively cover of “Ain’t Nobody (Loves Me Better),” giving a fresh spin to the hit by Felix Jaehn, and also captivated with his interpretation of “Feel the Fire” by Stephanie Mills, which showed his ability to command the stage with both passion and poise.
Peabo Bryson’s performance was a masterclass in the art of soulful storytelling through song. His ability to seamlessly weave through multiple genres—from soul to R&B to jazz—showcased not only his remarkable vocal talent but his enduring presence in the music world.
The intimate setting of the Bergen PAC allowed fans to experience his artistry in a way that felt personal and deeply emotional, leaving everyone in attendance with a sense of musical fulfillment long after the final note.
For those who are still fortunate enough to catch Bryson live, this show was a reminder of the unparalleled gift he has for turning every song into an unforgettable experience.
