Tributes paid after Duncan Sheik dies, age 56: “This one hurts and does not seem real”

Duncan Sheik, the Tony Award-winning composer of the hit Broadway musical Spring Awakening, has died aged 56. Sheik died of organ failure at a hospital in Manhattan on Thursday night (September 17), which followed his family putting out a statement earlier this week saying the composer was “receiving medical care” and was in “critical but stable condition”. In a follow-up post shared on Friday (September 18), his family wrote: “The world has 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. “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.” About a year before Barely Breathing was released and about 18 months before Duncan Sheik hit it ...