Duncan Sheik, the singer behind the 1996 hit “Barely Breathing” and the composer of the Tony-winning musical “Spring Awakening,” is in critical but stable condition, according to a statement posted to his Instagram page. The statement, released Thursday, did not provide further details and asked for privacy during what it described as an incredibly difficult time. Sheik is 56.
For anyone who came of age with ’90s radio, “Barely Breathing” is instantly recognizable. The song earned Sheik a Grammy nomination for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance and helped launch a career that now spans nine studio albums. But his second act may be even more impressive. He composed the music for “Spring Awakening,” which won Tony Awards for Best Musical, Best Original Score and Best Orchestration, plus a Grammy for Best Musical Show Album.
Sheik’s stage work continues. He wrote the music and lyrics for an upcoming off-Broadway production, “Memoirs of Amorous Gentlemen.” His team says updates will come when appropriate, and for now the family is simply asking for continued love and support.
What’s your favorite Duncan Sheik song, and did you catch “Spring Awakening” when it came through? Let us know in the comments.
