News

Superstar DJ Avicii passes away aged 28

Swedish star had worked with artists including Madonna and Rita Ora

Internationally successful DJ Avicii has died at the age of 28.

Avicii, whose real name was Tim Bergling, experienced huge hits around the world with songs Hey Brother, Levels and Wake Me Up.

He had recently worked with Rita Ora on the track Lonely Together, which reached number 4 in the UK singles chart.

Avicii performing (Credit: Instagram)

Read more: Dale Winton passes away aged 62

The Swedish star was found dead in Muscat, Oman yesterday afternoon and a representative confirmed the sad news.

“It is with profound sorrow that we announce the loss of Tim Bergling, also known as Avicii,” the statement said.

“He was found dead in Muscat, Oman this Friday afternoon local time, April 20th.”

“The family is devastated and we ask everyone to please respect their need for privacy in this difficult time.”

Avicii in the studio (Credit: Instagram)

Avicii had twice been nominated for a Grammy Award and had worked with a host of huge stars including David Guetta, Madonna, Lenny Kravitz, Nile Rodgers, Carlos Santana, Jon Bon Jovi, Chris Martin and many more.

Some of the stars he had worked with took to social media to pay tribute to Avicii, including fellow DJ Calvin Harris.

“Devastating news about Avicii,” he wrote. “A beautiful soul, passionate and extremely talented with so much more to do. My heart goes out to his family. God bless you Tim.”

Madonna and Avicii in Madonna’s Instagram post (credit: Instagram)

Rita Ora also joined the outpouring of grief, tweeting her memories of working with Avicii.

“I have no words,” she wrote. “I remember how amazing it was to make Lonely Together and it felt like just yesterday we were talking.

“Condolences to Avicii’s family, friends and the fans who supported him,” she continued. “May he rest in peace. Gone too soon. I’m devastated. Heartbroken.”

Oscar-winning actor Jared Leto also posted an image of the star to his Instagram account, where he added some touching words.

Read more: John Michie supports grieving parents’ charity after daughter’s death

“Avicii showed us the possibilities of life, rather than the imitations,” he wrote.

“He reminded us how kindness is more powerful than ego. And his relentless hard work, talent and determination touched the world,” he continued.

“He inspired a generation of musicians who will follow the path he blazed and they will take these lessons and do the same. Rest in peace brother.”


Nancy Brown
Associate Editor