The Electronic Dance Movement pioneer Avicii has died at the age of 28. The body of the Swedish-born DJ and producer, born Tim Bergling, was found in Oman on Friday, a publicist confirmed.
‘It is with profound sorrow that we announce the loss of Tim Bergling, also known as Avicii,’ the DJ’s publicist said in a statement.
However, the cause of death has not been announced. Reports claim that 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. No further statements will be given.’
Avicii was a pioneer of the contemporary Electronic Dance Movement and a rare DJ capable of the worldwide arena tour.
He won two MTV Music Awards, one Billboard Music Award and earned two Grammy nominations. Known for Wake Me Up! The Days and You Make Me, his biggest hit was Levels.
Avicii’s death comes just days after he was nominated for a Billboard Music Award for top dance/electronic album for his EP Avicii (01), which he released last August.
Avicii battled with acute pancreatitis – which is a potentially life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas – due in part to excessive drinking.
As a result, he had his gallbladder and appendix removed in 2014, cancelling a series of shows in an attempt to recover.
He quit touring in 2016 but continued making music in the studio.
Last year, the musician posted a statement on his website in which he said creating music is what he lived for.
He wrote: ‘WE ALL REACH A POINT IN OUR LIVES AND CAREERS WHERE WE UNDERSTAND WHAT MATTERS THE MOST TO US.
‘For me it’s creating music. That is what I live for, what I feel I was born to do.
Avicii had struggled with some health issues in the past, having his appendix and gallbladder removed in 2014.
He announced his retirement from touring in 2016, partly because of the health problems.
