The family of the late Swedish DJ Avicii (born Tim Bergling) came out on Thursday with a new statement regarding the musician’s death. The statement, translated from Swedish, described Bergling as “a fragile artistic soul searching for answers to existential questions.” The statement goes on to reveal that the musician “could not go on any longer” and “wanted to find peace,” implying that he might have died from suicide. The statement’s original Swedish wording makes the implication more overt, according to Variety.
Bergling was found dead in his hotel room in Muscat, Oman on April 20. CNN reports that the two postmortem examinations carried out did not reveal any signs of foul play involved in Bergling’s death.
While an official cause of death has still not been reported, the artist had retired from live performances back in 2016, following various health concerns, including “acute pancreatitis, in part due to excessive drinking,” per the Associated Press.
After hearing of Bergling’s death, many electronic musicians took to social media to show their support for their fallen comrade. Among the artists who publicly paid their respects were Deadmau5, Skrillex, Calvin Harris and Flying Lotus, as well as countless fans of the musician.
The remix I did of Levels hasn’t left my set since I made it back in 2011. All though we weren’t “close friends” I feel this deep sadness through the connection we had through this song. Tim was a truly a genius and an innovator, yet sensitive and humble. This industry can be rough and from a far I saw it take a tole on him. I just wish I could have hugged him more and told him it would be okay .You’re music will forever be apart of mine and so many other lives. Maybe that’s the closest thing we have to immortality. I really hope you’re essence , wherever it may be in the universe is now at peace. And if in some miracle you can see this , I hope you know that as long as human beings are alive on this planet , you will forever remain an inspiration. Thank you Tim. RIP
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A two-time Grammy nominee, Avicii first reached the top of the charts with his breakthrough hit “Levels” in 2013. His singles helped take EDM music into the mainstream and his legacy remains through his roster of massive hits, including “Wake Me Up” and “Hey Brother.”
Read Berling’s family’s full statement below.
Stockholm, 26 April 2018
Our beloved Tim was a seeker, a fragile artistic soul searching for answers to existential questions.
An over-achieving perfectionist who travelled and worked hard at a pace that led to extreme stress.
When he stopped touring, he wanted to find a balance in life to be happy and be able to do what he loved most—music.
He really struggled with thoughts about Meaning, Life, Happiness.
He could not go on any longer.
He wanted to find peace.
Tim was not made for the business machine he found himself in; he was a sensitive guy who loved his fans but shunned the spotlight.
Tim, you will forever be loved and sadly missed.
The person you were and your music will keep your memory alive.We love you,
Your family