Swedish DJ and producer Tim Bergling, known to his fans as Avicii, has died at 28 years old. The performer was found in Muscat, Oman on the afternoon of April 20th. His publicist, Diana Baron has released a statement saying, “It is with profound sorrow that we announce the loss of Tim Bergling, also known as Avicii. The family is devastated and we ask everyone to please respect their need for privacy in this difficult time. No further statements will be given.”
In 2016, Avicii retired from performing live, due to acute pancreatitis and other health complications. In 2014, he had his appendix and gallbladder removed. Regarding his decision to retire, Avicii told fans that while he was leaving the stage, he would continue making music.
True to his word, last year Avicii released Avīci (01), an EP featuring artists Cashmere Cat, AlunaGeorge, and more. A 2017 post on Bergling’s website reads, “Last year, I quit performing live, and many of you thought that was it. But, the end [of live shows] never meant the end of Avicii, or my music. Instead, I went back to the place where it all made sense – the studio.”
Avicii arrived on the EDM scene in 2011, largely thanks to his song “Levels,” still played today at countless festivals, dances, and parties. In 2013, his uplifting anthem “Wake Me Up,” featuring Aloe Blacc, brought him more recognition and sealed his place in the annals of EDM culture. Even after retirement, Avicii never stopped creating music.
While the artist may be gone, his legacy will remain as people around the world continue to enjoy the sprawling sounds of his songs for years to come. Other artists will no doubt pay tribute to his story by remixing his works in unique ways.
