On April 20, 2018, the world lost a music superstar, Avicii, who tragically took his own life at the young age of 28. His father, Klas Bergling, shared his deep emotions in a recent interview. He expressed how he misses his son, Tim, every minute, but also feels anger at times for leaving them behind.
Avicii, whose real name was Tim Bergling, rose to fame with his hit song “Levels” in 2011. He became a poster boy for the EDM genre, but after experiencing physical and mental health issues, he retired from live shows at the age of 26. Despite his struggles, he continued to produce music away from the spotlight.
Tim’s family wants the world to see him beyond his music career, releasing a picture book to honor his legacy and raise awareness about mental health. Through the Tim Bergling Foundation, set up in his memory, they aim to start conversations about the mental health crisis among young people.
Growing up, Tim faced anxiety and identity questions that followed him into his adulthood. His struggles with alcohol, pancreatitis, and addiction were exacerbated by the demands of touring and the music industry. Despite his commercial success, Tim’s mental health deteriorated, leading to delays in his music releases and clashes with the media.
His father, Klas, emphasized the need for systemic changes in the music industry to prioritize artist well-being. He shared the challenges of confronting Tim about his issues and the difficulty of making tough decisions for his son’s health.
Tim’s legacy continues through the foundation’s efforts to support mental health initiatives and suicide prevention. The family’s long-term plan includes a 50-year legacy to honor Tim’s memory and raise awareness about mental health issues.
Despite the pain of losing Tim, Klas finds comfort in the impact his son continues to have on the world. Through concerts, tributes, and initiatives, Tim’s spirit lives on, reminding us of the importance of mental health awareness and breaking the stigma surrounding these issues.
As we remember Avicii’s life and music, let us also reflect on the importance of supporting those who may be struggling with mental health challenges. Tim’s legacy serves as a reminder that even in the face of darkness, there is hope for a better tomorrow.