28-year-old Swedish DJ and musician Avicii has been pronounced dead

Avicii, whose real name is Tim Bergling, was 28 at the time of his death. He was one of the biggest stars of electronic dance music (EDM) in Europe.

Speaking in a statement, Avicii’s US publicist, Diana Baron says: “It is with profound sorrow that we announce the loss of Tim Bergling, also known as Avicii. The family is devastated and we ask everyone to please respect their need for privacy in this difficult time.”

No cause of death was given and according to Baron, no further statements would be released.

Avicii announced his retirement from touring in 2016 and later told Billboard magazine he had made the decision for health reasons.

Speaking to the magazine at the time, he says: “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. 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.”

However, he did not stop making music. He released a six-track EP album in August 2017 and won a number of American Music Awards: Billboard music awards and MTV Europe Music awards for his EDM work.

Some people make an impact in their little ways and Avicii did his. I was introduced to his after I stumbled onto his song, Wake Me Up. The first time I heard it, I knew I wanted to have that song. It’s unique, soulful and speaks a lot about the musician. Avicii touched hearts in his own way and his death saddens my heart.

Reacting to the news of his death, many of his fans have taken to social media to express their heartbreak. A twitter user @Zedd writes: “No words can describe the sadness I’m feeling right now, hearing about Avicii passing away… Thoughts go out to his family and friends…”

Can someone please wake him up? Avicii was a legend and remains one in our heart. We just never thought we’d lose him at such young age.

Click play to watch Wake Up here.