He shot to stardom as a Gen X alternative singer-songwriter with his hit Barely Breathing before leaving the pop industry to become a Tony-winning Broadway composer.
He died at a hospital in New York City on Thursday night after suffering a medical emergency, his family said in a statement.
His death was sudden and unexpected, with his family saying on Wednesday that he was “in critical but stable condition.”
They released a statement on his Instagram on Friday morning.
“The world has lost a singular talent and a 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.”
The statement continued: “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.”
The family said he died “surrounded by love.”
Duncan’s debut single, Barely Breathing, become a huge hit and scored him a Grammy nomination for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance.
His career pivoted toward composing in 2002 when he created an original score for Twelfth Night at the New York Shakespeare Festival.
Continuing his stage work, Duncan later provided the music for Spring Awakening, which starred Lea Michele and Jonathan Groff.
Lea and Jonathan starred first in the Off-Broadway run of the musical in 2006.
After its smashing success, the show was taken to Broadway at the Eugene O’Neill Theatre where it ran from late 2006 to 2009.
That original Broadway run brought home a Grammy Award for Best Musical Show Album along with Tony Awards for Best Orchestrations, Best Original Score, and Best Musical.
The show is being revived once again for Off-Broadway, with Variety announcing the casting earlier this week.
Duncan leaves behind his wife, real estate agent and former fashion model, Nora Ariffin, and his daughter, Ines, 8.
