The family of Avicii, whose real name was Tim Bergling, has released a statement thanking fans and the music community for honouring his legacy.
“We would like to thank you for the support and the loving words about our son and brother,” the statement read. “We are so grateful for everyone who loved Tim’s music and have precious memories of his songs. Thank you for all the initiatives taken to honour Tim, with public gatherings, church bells ringing out his music, tributes at Coachella and moments of silence around the world.”
Avicii was found dead on April 20 at the age of 28. No cause of death has yet been released, but authorities have ruled out “criminal suspicion”. Avicii retired from touring in early 2016, prioritising his health after being diagnosed with pancreatitis a few years earlier.
“To me, it was something I had to do for my health,” he told The Hollywood Reporter in 2016. “The scene was not for me. It was not the shows and not the music. It was always the other stuff surrounding it that never came naturally to me. All the other parts of being an artist. I’m more of an introverted person in general. It was always very hard for me. I took on board too much negative energy, I think.”
Tributes have been flowing from the music community, with everyone from Calvin Harris to Madonna remembering the icon of dance music.
https://twitter.com/CalvinHarris/status/987385354175959041
At Coachella, DJ Kygo ended his set with an emotional tribute to his “musical inspiration”, and in Stockholm, thousands of fans fathered to remember the musician.
Right now, in the center of Stockholm, a tribute to Avicii. 💔 #Sergelstorg pic.twitter.com/Cj7A3Ehw48
— Irma Crespo 🚀✨ (@illo_luv) April 21, 2018
Avicii’s family ended their statement by asking for privacy.
“We are grateful for the privacy during this difficult time,” they said. “Our wish is that it continues that way.”
You can read the full statement below.
We would like to thank you for the support and the loving words about our son and brother. We are so grateful for everyone who loved Tim’s music and have precious memories of his songs.
Thank you for all the initiatives taken to honour Tim, with public gatherings, church bells ringing out his music, tributes at Coachella and moments of silence around the world.
We are grateful for the privacy during this difficult time. Our wish is that it continues that way.
With love,
The Tim Bergling Family
