Avicii, the stage name of Swedish DJ and producer Tim Bergling, remains an icon in the electronic dance music (EDM) world. From 2011 to 2018, his music was a staple in clubs and festivals globally, with hits like “Wake Me Up,” “Levels,” and “Hey Brother” dominating charts. Even after his untimely passing, Avicii’s legacy continues to resonate with fans, prompting deeper interest in his life, especially with the upcoming Netflix documentary Avicii — I’m Tim. A question that persistently lingers in the minds of many is: How Did Avicii Die?
Born in Stockholm, Tim Bergling’s journey from a bedroom producer to an international superstar was rapid. By 16, he was already sharing his remixes on online music forums. His 2011 track “Levels,” sampling Etta James, became an instant anthem, catapulting him into the global spotlight. The 2013 album True further cemented his innovative approach, blending EDM with genres like folk and bluegrass, most notably in “Wake Me Up” featuring Aloe Blacc, a song that topped charts in over 20 countries. Avicii’s success was immense, marked by Grammy nominations and collaborations with music giants like Madonna and Coldplay, all while performing hundreds of live shows. However, beneath the dazzling career, Bergling wrestled with the pressures of fame, culminating in his shocking death in 2018.
Avicii’s Cause of Death: Suicide
Tim Bergling was found dead on April 20, 2018, near Muscat, Oman, where he was vacationing. He was only 28 years old. Initial reports from Omani police indicated no suspicion of criminal activity or foul play. Subsequently, on May 1, 2018, TMZ reported that Avicii’s death was ruled as a suicide resulting from self-inflicted injuries using a broken wine bottle, leading to fatal blood loss. A private funeral followed, and he was laid to rest on June 8, 2018, at the Skogskyrkogården cemetery in Stockholm.
In the aftermath of his death, Avicii’s family released a deeply moving statement, offering a glimpse into his inner turmoil. They described him as “a fragile artistic soul searching for answers to existential questions,” and “an overachieving perfectionist” who pushed himself relentlessly, leading to “extreme stress.” The statement revealed his desire to find balance and happiness after retiring from touring, hoping to reconnect with his love for music away from the intense spotlight. “He really struggled with thoughts about Meaning, Life, Happiness. He could not go on any longer. He wanted to find peace,” the family shared, highlighting the profound mental health challenges he faced.
The family’s statement further emphasized the mismatch between Avicii’s sensitive nature and the demanding music industry. “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.” This poignant message underscored the immense pressure he experienced, contrasting his public persona with his private struggles.
The Pressures of Fame and Health Struggles
Avicii’s struggles were evident in the years preceding his death. In 2016, he shocked the music world by announcing his retirement from touring, citing health concerns. He had been open about his battle with acute pancreatitis, a condition partly attributed to excessive alcohol consumption. His demanding tour schedule, sometimes reaching 250 shows annually, had severely impacted his physical and mental well-being.
The 2017 documentary Avicii: True Stories provided a raw and unfiltered look at the relentless pressure he was under. Footage showed him working from hospital beds and grappling with the constant demands of touring and performing. Despite stepping away from live performances, his passion for music production remained, leading to the release of the EP “Avīci (01)” in 2017. This period illustrated his attempt to recalibrate his life, focusing on his art while trying to escape the overwhelming aspects of fame.
Avicii’s Legacy: Raising Awareness for Mental Health
In the wake of his tragic passing, the Tim Bergling Foundation was established by his family. The foundation’s mission is to advocate for mental health awareness and suicide prevention. Avicii’s final recordings were released posthumously in 2019 as the album TIM, with all proceeds directed to the foundation. This album featured collaborations with artists like Imagine Dragons and Aloe Blacc, embodying the innovative and uplifting spirit that defined his music.
Avicii’s death served as a stark reminder of the intense pressures faced by artists in the music industry and the critical importance of mental health support. His legacy extends beyond his music, inspiring conversations about mental well-being and prompting action through the Tim Bergling Foundation. For those seeking help, resources like the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline are available, offering confidential support.
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, help is available. Call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 for free and confidential counseling.
