DJ and EDM artist Avicii was recently found dead in his hotel room in Muscat, Oman on April 20th. He was 28 years old. According to Stereogum, Avicii’s family has released a statement in regards to his death, implying that he took his own life.
“Our beloved Tim was a seeker, a fragile artistic soul searching for answers to existential questions. An over-achieving perfectionist who traveled and worked hard at a pace that led to extreme stress,” they wrote. “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.”
Avicii rose to success after his song “Levels” in 2013, sampling Etta James. He continued his success with another successful single, “Wake Me Up” featuring Aloe Blacc in 2015. While rising to the top, Avicii also has issues with his health, starting in 2014 when he had to get his gall bladder and appendix removed.
It resulted in him announcing his retirement from performing in 2016. He wrote a letter to the fans with the announcement, stating “My choices and career have never been driven by material things, although I’m grateful for all the opportunities and comforts my success has availed me,” the Grammy-nominated artist continued. “I know I am blessed to be able to travel all around the world and perform, but I have too little left for the life of a real person behind the artist.”
The DJ was still working on new music, with his most recent EP titled Avīci (01), released last year and also featured Alunageorge and Cashmere Cat.