Broadway composer and singer Duncan Sheik dies at 56
Published in Entertainment News
NEW YORK — Duncan Sheik, who composed the Tony Award-winning show “Spring Awakening” and sang the 1996 Grammy-nominated pop music hit “Barely Breathing,” has died. He was 56.
His death was announced in a statement posted Friday
“It is with profound sadness that we confirm the passing of Duncan Sheik,” that notice states. “The world has a lost a singular talent, and deeply influential voice in music and theater.”
He was loved not only as an artist, but as a father, husband, son, brother, and friend as well.
“He will be remembered for his sensitivity, wit, intelligence, and depth of spirit he brought to those who knew and loved him,” that statement continues.
His family expressed their appreciation for the support that poured in from fans after they announced Thursday that he was being treated for an unspecified ailment.
Sheik’s family had said that the singer was “in critical but stable condition,” but receiving medical care that day.
He died Thursday night in Manhattan “surrounded by love.”
The New York Times reported Friday that the New Jersey native succumbed to organ failure that led to cardiac arrest.
His death comes weeks before the opening of “Memoirs of Amorous Gentlemen” at Chelsea venue The Culture Club. Previews for the musical adaptation of Moyoco Anno’s manga graphic novel of the same name start Sept. 25. The show, for which Sheik wrote music, opens on Oct. 15.
A “Spring Awakening” revival is slated to open on West 43rd Street on Dec. 17. Sheik won a 2007 Grammy Award for that rocking musical.
Sheik is survived by his wife, model Nora Ariffin, and their 7-year-old daughter, Ines.
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