'Barely Breathing' singer Duncan Sheik is hospitalised in 'critical condition' in New York at 56

From the Newshound archive · first published 19 September 2026.

Duncan Sheik, best known for his 1996 hit 'Barely Breathing', is in critical but stable condition in a New York City hospital, his team announced via Instagram on Wednesday. His family released a statement asking for privacy and confirming no further medical details will be shared. Sheik, 56, has released nine studio albums and also composed the Tony Award-winning musical 'Spring Awakening'.

'Barely Breathing' reached No. 16 on the Billboard Hot 100 and spent 55 consecutive weeks on the chart.

Sheik won Tony Awards for Best Original Score and Best Orchestrations for 'Spring Awakening' in 2007.

His team says updates will come 'when appropriate', leaving fans with no timeline on his recovery.