“Barely Breathing” singer Duncan Sheik died of heart failure leading to cardiac arrest, according to People.
Sheik’s loved ones confirmed that he died on Thursday night at age 56 while “surrounded by love.”
“The world has a lost a singular talent, and deeply influential voice in music and theater,” his family wrote on Instagram on Friday.
Sheik’s family remembered the “father, husband, son, brother, and friend” for “his sensitivity, wit, intelligence, and depth of spirit he brought to those who knew and loved him.”
The statement also recognized Sheik’s greatest accomplishments, including his hit debut song “Barely Breathing” and his work on the musical “Spring Awakening,” which won him two Tony Awards.
“Duncan’s artistry touched many and leaves an indelible mark on the cultural landscape,” the family said.
They also expressed gratitude “for outpouring of love from his fans, friends, collaborators, and the artistic community,” vowing that Sheik’s “musical legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.”
The late songwriter’s mother confirmed to the New York Times on Friday that Sheik died in a Manhattan hospital after a cardiac arrest.
Sheik’s rep did not immediately respond to Page Six’s request for comment.
On Wednesday, Sheik’s family revealed via Instagram that he had been “receiving medical care” and was in “critical but stable condition.”
They avoided “sharing any further medical details” and asked “for privacy during this incredibly difficult time.”
Sheik was best known for his 1996 song “Barely Breathing,” which earned him a Grammy nomination for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance in 1998.
“It kind of took on a life of its own,” he said about the song in a 2015 interview with Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI).
The late singer also famously wrote the 2006 musical “Spring Awakening” with Steven Stater, winning the Tonys for Best Original Score and Best Orchestrations.
Sheik is survived by his mom and siblings, as well as daughter Inez, whom he welcomed in 2018 with wife Nora Ariffin.
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