Duncan Sheik, "Barely Breathing" Singer and Tony-Winning Composer, Dies at 56

Duncan Sheik, the singer behind the 90s hit“Barely Breathing,”has died at 56. His loved ones announced Friday on Instagram that he suffered a cardiac arrest on Thursday, sharing the news“with profound sadness.”In their statement, they remembered him as a father, husband, son, brother, and friend, calling him“a singular talent, and deeply influential voice in music and theater.”

For a certain generation,“Barely Breathing”is a time machine. The song dominated radio in the late 90s and never really left rotation, a mellow, slightly melancholy anthem that still sounds like driving home with the windows down. But Sheik’s career didn’t stop there. He reinvented himself as a theater composer and won a Tony Award for the score of“Spring Awakening,”cementing a second act that most pop artists only dream about.

His family said he’d be remembered for the sensitivity, wit, intelligence, and depth of spirit he brought to everyone who knew and loved him. The story is still developing, and we’ll update as more information becomes available. In the meantime, consider this your sign to hit play on“Barely Breathing”today.

What’s your favorite memory tied to that song? Drop it in the comments.