Sad news today…
Duncan Sheik, the singer/songwriter behind the hit ’90s song Barely Breathing, has died at 56.
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The news was shared on his social media Friday morning. On Instagram, the statement reads:
“It is with profound sadness that we confirm the passing of Duncan Sheik.
The world has a lost a singular talent, and deeply influential voice in music and theater. From his Grammy-nominated hit “Barely Breathing” to his groundbreaking, Tony and Grammy Award-winning work on Spring Awakening, Duncan’s artistry touched many and leaves an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.”
Spring Awakening‘s original 2006 run starred Lea Michele as Wendla and Jonathan Groff as Melchior.
The statement continued:
“Duncan was a father, husband, son, brother, and friend. He will be remembered for his sensitivity, wit, inteligence, and depth of spirit he brought to those who knew and loved him.
We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love from his fans, friends, collaborators, and the artistic community. His musical legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
Duncan passed away last night surrounded by love.”
See the post for yourself (below):
According to reports, his mother Suzanne confirms he passed from organ failure.
Earlier this week his team had let fans know he had been hospitalized via social media. They told followers he was in “critical but stable condition” at the time and would not be “sharing any further medical details.”
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Duncan was a Grammy nominated and Tony award winning artist. The latest show he wrote music for, Memoirs of an Amorous Gentleman, is set to debut off-Broadway this fall. It’s based on the Moyoco Anno manga graphic novel and will be directed by Rob Ashford. It marks the first manga to be developed into an American musical in English.
Such a sad loss for the music world, New York theater community, and 90s kids. May he rest in peace.
[Image via YouTube/Duncan Sheik.]
