Avicii, the electronic music genius whose talent was swallowed up by fame

15. 03. 2025 | Natalie Bezděková

From a gifted boy from Stockholm to a musical legend

Tim Bergling, known to the world as Avicii, has been interested in music since childhood. He was born and raised in Stockholm, where his parents fully supported his passion for melody and rhythm. At first he tried playing guitar, but the real breakthrough came when he discovered the music software FL Studio. This became his main tool for creating his own electronic music, which he started sharing on online forums for aspiring producers. It was there that he was first noticed by music enthusiasts and his journey to stardom began.

Fame and the relentless pressure of the music industry

He seemed to be living a life that many people only dream of. His songs Wake Me Up, Levels and Hey Brother became global hits and were played not only on the radio but also at the biggest music festivals. Avicii has collaborated with global stars such as Madonna and Coldplay and has become an icon of electronic dance music. But the huge success had its downside – the constant pressure, exhaustion and endless touring began to take its toll.

A key manager and a career turning point

The young talent’s career was significantly influenced by Iranian-Swedish music producer Arash Pournouri, who discovered his potential in 2007. He soon became his manager and helped him build a brand that changed the world of electronic music. They worked together until 2016, when their paths parted. In 2010 Avicii released the single Seek Bromance, which opened the door to international success, but his real breakthrough came a year later with the legendary Levels.

However, with growing popularity came a huge workload, constant travel and the pressures of the music industry. Avicii struggled to keep up with his stellar career, but became increasingly exhausted.

Health problems and the decision to stop performing

Tim was an introvert who loved his music and his fans, but the mass concerts and endless touring were mentally taxing for him. To help him relax, he started drinking alcohol, which led to serious health complications. A diagnosis of chronic pancreatitis forced him to undergo several medical procedures, including the removal of his gallbladder and appendix.

Gradually, he realized that his mental and physical health was breaking down. Therefore, in 2016, he decided to stop live performances and focus only on studio work. He seemed to have found a new path – he started meditating, travelling and pursuing personal development. But the demons that accompanied him during his career did not leave him.

Tragic end in Oman

In the spring of 2018, Avicii went on holiday to Oman. On 20 April, he was found dead in his hotel room in Muscat. His family later suggested in a statement that it was a suicide – Tim was said to have been struggling with inner demons and questions about the meaning of life that led him to take the desperate step.

The love the world didn’t know about for a long time

It was only after his death that it was revealed that his life partner was Czech model Tereza Kačerová. Together they raised her son Luka and planned for the future. After his death, she published an emotional letter in which she expressed her deep pain at his passing. She admitted that despite their strong relationship, she was not allowed to attend his funeral, which deepened her loss.

Legacy and the fight for mental health

Avicii’s tragic story has brought to the fore an important debate about artists’ mental health and the pressures of fame. Following his death, his parents set up the Tim Bergling Foundation, which focuses on suicide prevention and mental health support for young people.

Although Avicii’s life ended too soon, his music remains immortal. His songs are still played on the radio, at festivals and in the hearts of fans who will never forget him.

Photo source: www.pexels.com

Author of this article

Natalie Bezděková

I am a student of Master's degree in Political Science. I am interested in marketing, especially copywriting and social media. I also focus on political and social events at home and abroad and technological innovations. My free time is filled with sports, reading and a passion for travel.

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