Exact Date and Age at Death
Avicii, born Tim Bergling, died on April 20, 2018, at age 28 in Muscat, Oman. The official cause was acute multiple organ failure linked to chronic pancreatitis and other health issues. His family later confirmed he had struggled with stress and physical strain from touring and lifestyle pressures. The news triggered global tributes from fans and artists across the music industry. At the time of his death, he was one of the most streamed electronic artists worldwide, with billions of plays on major platforms. His passing prompted renewed discussions about mental health and burnout in the music business. See the timeline of his final years and public appearances on his official site avicii.com.
Following his death, several documentaries and tribute projects were released to document his career and impact. The 2024 documentary Avicii: I'm Tim provides new interviews and footage from his final years. His posthumous album TIM was released in June 2019, featuring tracks completed before his passing. The album charted in the top 10 in multiple countries, including Sweden and the United States. Streaming data shows his music continues to receive hundreds of millions of plays annually. His estate, managed by his family, remains active in licensing and charitable work. The Tim Bergling Foundation focuses on mental health awareness and suicide prevention globally.
Career Highlights and Major Achievements
Avicii rose to fame in 2012 with the hit single "Levels," which reached the top 5 on charts in over 15 countries. He collaborated with artists like Aloe Blacc, David Guetta, and Wyclef Jean, blending EDM with pop and folk influences. His debut album True (2013) debuted at number one in several markets and earned Grammy nominations. He was named one of the highest-paid DJs by Forbes during his peak years. His tracks "Wake Me Up" and "Hey Brother" became global radio staples and streaming milestones. He headlined major festivals including Ultra Music Festival, Tomorrowland, and Coachella. His music videos collectively have billions of views on YouTube and other platforms.
Avicii retired from touring in 2016 due to health concerns, including acute pancreatitis. He continued producing music from home and focused on songwriting and philanthropy. His final releases included singles like "SOS" and "Tough Love," which were completed by his production team after his death. He received posthumous awards and nominations, including recognition at the Billboard Music Awards and MTV Europe Music Awards. His influence is visible in the rise of melodic house and pop-oriented electronic music. Industry reports cite his role in popularizing EDM in mainstream markets during the 2010s. His catalog remains a major asset in the global sync licensing market for film, TV, and advertising.
Financial Legacy and Estate Management
Avicii’s estate is estimated to be worth over $50 million, based on music royalties, sync deals, and posthumous releases. His income streams include streaming royalties, catalog sales, and brand partnerships that continue after his death. The management of his intellectual property involves his family, legal advisors, and major label agreements. His publishing rights are handled through companies that oversee synchronization and mechanical licensing globally. The Tim Bergling Foundation receives support from estate revenues and private donations. Financial disclosures and estate planning details have not been fully public, but industry estimates reflect his enduring commercial value. His case is often cited in discussions about artist estates and long-term royalty management.
The music industry has seen a shift in how estates of deceased artists are managed and monet