Musician Duncan Sheik has passed away at the age of 56. The writer of songs like “Barely Breathing” and composer of musicals such as Spring Awakening, Alice by Heart, and American Psycho the Musical passed away due to heart failure surrounded by his family.
In an exclusive statement to People, Sheik’s family said the following: “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. From his Grammy-nominated hit ‘Barely Breathing’ to his groundbreaking, Tony and Grammy Award-winning work on Spring Awakening, Duncan’s artistry touched many and leaves an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.”
They continued, “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. 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. Duncan passed away last night surrounded by love.”
The news came after the family posted earlier this week about Sheik being in the hospital.
Duncan Sheik’s Musicals Changed My Life
As a musical theatre fan, I had to find my own way within the genre. Listening to shows like Pippin and Tommy as a kid put me in a strange place as someone who loved musicals. But when I heard Spring Awakening for the first time, I knew that I could have a new rock musical that is fresh and beautiful and emotionally intelligent. It was inspirational. So much so that I put on my own production of it in college, fully funded by students, because of how it shaped my life.
So when I heard that Sheik was in charge of doing the music for a musical based on American Psycho, my favorite piece of media, I knew that I was in good hands. It was like Sheik made his musicals for the musical fan in me. And they allowed me to find myself within the genre and know that I had a place in musical theatre.
His shows changed my life and I will always be grateful to Sheik for his work. Our hearts go out to his family.
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