Duncan Sheik, 'Barely Breathing' Singer, Dies at 56

Duncan Sheik, the Grammy-winning musician best known for his 1990s hit "Barely Breathing," has died at the age of 56. His family announced his passing on Friday, sharing that he died on Thursday after suffering a cardiac arrest.

Two days prior, on Wednesday, Sheik's family had revealed that he was hospitalized and in "critical but stable condition" while receiving medical care. At the time, they did not disclose further medical details, citing the difficulty of the situation and thanking fans for their support.

Sheik's family described the loss in an Instagram statement, writing, "The world has a lost a singular talent, and deeply influential voice in music and theater." They remembered him as a "father, husband, son, brother, and friend" and noted his "sensitivity, wit, intelligence, and depth of spirit."

The statement continued, "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." His loved ones stated he passed away "surrounded by love."

Sheik's mother confirmed to The New York Times that he died in a Manhattan hospital. People magazine reported that organ failure was the cause of death.

Sheik gained widespread recognition with his 1996 song "Barely Breathing," which reached the top 20 of the Billboard Hot 100 chart. His career extended beyond popular music, earning him critical acclaim in musical theater. He won two Tony Awards for his score for the musical "Spring Awakening," which premiered in 2006.