Duncan Sheik, 'Barely Breathing' singer, dead at 56

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Duncan Sheik, the singer-songwriter behind the hit "Barely Breathing" and the Tony and Grammy-winning musical "Spring Awakening," has died . He was 56.

Sheik died Thursday from organ failure, his mother, Suzanne Sheik, told The New York Times .

Representatives for Sheik did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment.

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"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," Sheik's social media account posted Friday . "Duncan was a father, husband, son, brother, and friend. He will be remembered for his sensitivity, wit, intelligence, and depth of spirit he brought to those who knew and loved him."

The news comes after Sheik's Instagram account shared an update on his health on Wednesday.

"Duncan is currently receiving medical care and remains in critical but stable condition," the statement read . "Out of respect for Duncan and our family, we will not be sharing any further medical details at this time."

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"We kindly ask for privacy during this incredibly difficult time and will provide updates when appropriate," the statement continued. "Thank you for the continued love and support."

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The statement was released just before the Off-Broadway premiere of Sheik's new musical, "Memoirs of Amorous Gentlemen," and coincided with the announcement of a new Off-Broadway staging of "Spring Awakening."

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Duncan Sheik and Steven Sater accept an award for "Spring Awakening" on stage in 2007. (AP Photo/Jeff Christensen)

Throughout the summer of 2026, Sheik frequently posted photos of himself from the hospital on Instagram . He did not publicly share details about his condition.

His song "Barely Breathing," released in 1996, spent 55 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at No. 16. The song earned Sheik a Grammy nomination for best male pop vocal performance in 1998 and later found new audiences on shows including "Glee" and "Girls."

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While "Barely Breathing" made Sheik a familiar voice on '90s radio, Broadway ultimately became a defining chapter of his career.

The "Spring Awakening" musical was adapted from a 19th-century play by German playwright Frank Wedekind, with music by Sheik and lyrics by playwright Steven Sater.

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