Avicii
About
Tim Bergling, known professionally as Avicii, was a Swedish DJ, musician, and record producer, widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in modern electronic dance music (EDM). Born on September 8, 1989, in Stockholm, Sweden, he developed an early interest in music and began creating his own electronic tracks at the age of 16. His breakthrough came in 2011 with the release of the single "Levels," which became a global hit and earned him recognition within the EDM community. Avicii’s early life was marked by a passion for music and an affinity for playing video games, particularly World of Warcraft. His anxiety began at a young age, and by 14, his parents sought professional help to address his mental health struggles. Despite his growing fame, Avicii’s personal life was marked by relationships and personal challenges. From 2011 to 2013, he dated Emily Goldberg, an American student who passed away in 2024. He later had a relationship with Canadian model Racquel Bettencourt, with whom he lived in California until they split in late 2014. He briefly reconciled with Bettencourt in 2016, but their reunion was marked by a miscarriage. At the time of his death, he was dating Czech model Tereza Kacerova. Avicii’s health struggles were widely known. In 2012, he was hospitalized for 11 days in New York City due to acute pancreatitis, brought on by excessive alcohol use. Between 2012 and 2014, he became dependent on prescription opioids like OxyContin and Vicodin for pain relief. In 2014, Avicii underwent surgery to remove his appendix and gallbladder. His addiction to painkillers worsened, prompting him to enter a rehabilitation facility in 2015. During this time, he made the decision to retire from touring in 2016, citing his health and mental well-being. He took up transcendental meditation and sought therapy, finding some relief from his anxiety. However, the pressure from his management and fans to continue performing contributed to his mental health struggles. Avicii’s struggles were compounded by the high expectations placed upon him by his management team, led by Arash Pournouri. While Pournouri admitted to being aware of Avicii’s anxiety, he did not fully recognize it as a mental health issue. The demands to tour and maintain his public persona ultimately played a significant role in Avicii’s mental health decline. His struggles were further exacerbated by the loss of his personal autonomy while on the road. Avicii’s death, at the age of 28 on April 20, 2018, in Muscat, Oman, was initially attributed to suicide. His family later confirmed that he died by suicide in an open letter, citing his ongoing battle with existential questions, mental health issues, and his inability to cope with the pressures of fame. Following his death, tributes poured in from across the music industry. OneRepublic, The Chainsmokers, and Tiësto were among the many artists who paid tribute by performing Avicii’s songs. In addition to the live tributes, a memorial service was held for Avicii at Skogskyrkogården in Stockholm, attended by hundreds of fans. The Tim Bergling Foundation was established to raise awareness about mental health and suicide prevention, which remained a central focus in the years following his death. Avicii’s legacy as a pioneer in EDM endures. He revolutionized the genre, blending electronic music with elements of country, folk, and pop. His hits such as "Wake Me Up," "Levels," and "Hey Brother" continue to resonate with fans around the world. His music, alongside his dedication to addressing mental health challenges, ensures that his influence on the EDM world will never be forgotten.
Music
Combining electronic dance with elements of pop, country, and folk, the sound creates anthems that resonate globally. Uplifting melodies, catchy hooks, and infectious beats are central to the style, blending acoustic instruments with electronic production. This unique fusion bridges genres, appealing to a wide audience. Themes of freedom, self-discovery, and human connection are explored throughout, with each track evoking powerful emotions. The emotional depth is evident in its melodic progression, leaving a lasting impact on listeners. This innovative mix redefines modern music, offering a timeless experience that transcends genres and boundaries.