Swedish DJ and musician, Avicii, reportedly took his own life in April 2018. Born Tim Bergling, the fast-rising star died at age 28.
Years on, his father, Klas Begling, has spoken about his son’s legacy and career saying he missed him “every minute.”
“Tim meant a lot to young people – his music, his lyrics, and his person. At first, I didn’t understand why, but then a fan said, ‘Tim was authentic’. I understood. Many young people relate to that authenticity, honesty and struggles.
“…Of course, I talk to him every day. But, I admit, I get angry at him sometimes. Why did you do it? Why did you leave us? Mr Begling said in a BBC interview.
The family recently released a picture book of the Wake Me Up composer titled Avicii: The Life and Music of Tim Bergling, and also plans to enshrine suicide prevention as part of the musician’s legacy.
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The Tim Bergling Foundation has worked with the Swedish government’s new hotline to help people struggling with suicide. Mr Begling also reflected on a tribute concert that sort to throw more light on suicide.
“We tried to get as many young people there as possible, as well as politicians. One of the most impactful moments was a big group of parents coming up on stage who had lost their children to suicide. It was such a strong moment. The most important thing is to break the stigma facing young people,” Mr Begling said.
At age 16, Avicii began posting his remixes on electronic music forums, which led to his first record deal. He rose to prominence in 2011 with his single Levels. His debut studio album, True (2013), blended electronic music with elements of multiple genres and received generally positive reviews.
It peaked in the top 10 in more than 15 countries and topped international charts. The lead single, Wake Me Up, topped most music markets in Europe and reached number four in the United States.
He is believed to have committed suicide while on holiday in Oman. Before his death, he had taken a long break from music tours. Persons close to him said he had mental health challenges.
After his passing, his family issued a statement that somewhat confirmed that he had taken his own life. The family described him as “an over-achieving perfectionist who traveled 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, and 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,” Avicii’s relatives stated.
