Debbie Duncan, 'Minnesota's first lady of song,' dies at 69 after a series of strokes One of the busiest singers in town, the Detroit native sparkled onstage. By Jon Bream Star Tribune December 18, 2020 — 3:51pm Text size Copy shortlink: If she wasn't on stage, she might be sitting at the bar, or standing in the back of the room. Debbie Duncan was out in the clubs most every night, sporting some creative headwear and a look-at-me outfit. "She loved to hang. She believed in supporting her fellow artists," said Andrew Walesch, a singer-pianist and music director of Crooners supper club in Fridley.