Duncan Sheik, the singer-songwriter best known for his hit “Barely Breathing,” has died at 56. The musician, who also found success in Broadway, was hospitalized earlier this week before his death in Manhattan.
Duncan Sheik dies from organ failure after acclaimed music and Broadway career
Sheik reportedly passed away in Manhattan on Friday. The singer died from organ failure, according to The New York Times. His mother, Suzanne Sheik, confirmed his death to the publication.
His Instagram account also confirmed the news. “It is with profound sadness that we confirm the passing of Duncan Sheik,” the statement said. The post called him a “singular talent,” and “deeply influential voice in music and theater.”
The news followed a family update about his hospitalization. Sheik had been in “critical but stable condition” earlier that week. His family had asked fans for privacy while providing updates. His death marked the end of a career spanning music and Broadway. He released his self-titled album on June 4, 1996. His breakout single “Barely Breathing” earned a Grammy nomination in 1998.
Sheik later became closely associated with Spring Awakening. He composed the musical with Steven Sater, who wrote its lyrics. The Broadway production premiered in 2006 with Lea Michele and Jonathan Groff.
The musical earned multiple Tony Awards during its Broadway run. It won awards for best musical, best original score, and best orchestrations. It also won a Grammy for best musical theater album.
Sheik released nine studio albums throughout his music career. His work crossed alternative rock, folk, pop, and musical theater. His 1990s breakthrough made “Barely Breathing” a defining song of that era.
His cause of death was confirmed as organ failure following his hospitalization. His death also came shortly before a planned Spring Awakening revival. The off-Broadway production is scheduled for previews beginning November 27.
The planned revival will be directed by Danya Taymor at Studio Seaview. Its official opening is scheduled for December 17. Sheik’s work will therefore continue reaching audiences through the musical’s upcoming return.
