Avicii dies at 28, celebrities pay tribute to the late DJ

World-renowned Swedish DJ and electronic music producer Avicii was found dead in Muscat, Oman. His real name was Tim Bergling and was known for his popular tracks such as Wake Me Up and Levels. He shot to fame in 2011 with the smash hit Levels, followed by chartbusters Wake Me Up and Hey Brother. Avicii has collaborated with various artists including Coldplay, David Guetta, Lenny Kravitz, Robbie Williams and Rita Ora.

Avicii's publicist said, ''He was found dead in Muscat, Oman this Friday (April 20) afternoon local time. The family is devastated and we ask everyone to please respect their need for privacy in this difficult time. No further statements will be given''.

Avicii had health issues in the past and was hospitalised for 11 days in 2012 for the treatment of acute pancreatitis. It was caused by excessive drinking. In 2016, the artist shocked his fans all across the globe when he announced his temporary retirement from touring, citing a desire to ''explore other interests''. 

Avicii's journey in music began during his teens. He started producing at the age of 16 and touring began when he was 18. Avicii was twice nominated for Grammy, once for his work on Sunshine with David Guetta in 2012 and another time for his song Levels in 2013.

Since the heartbreaking announcement, the entire music community and other celebrities have been expressing their sorrow and sympathies.

Devastating news about Avicii, a beautiful soul, passionate and extremely talented with so much more to do. My heart goes out to his family. God bless you Tim x,” tweeted DJ Calvin Harris.

''Such sad news to hear about Avicii passing. Too young and way too soon. My condolences go out to his family, friends and fans x,'' tweeted Dua Lipa.

''I have no words. I remember how amazing it was to make Lonely Together and it felt like just yesterday we were talking. Condolences to Avicii's family, friends, and the fans who supported him. May he rest in peace. Gone too soon. I’m devastated. Heartbroken,'' Rita Ora tweeted.

Paris Hilton was devastated.''Devastated hearing the sad news of @Avicii passing.  Such a sweet soul with a big heart & incredible talent. So many amazing memories together. My thoughts & prayers are with his family. Rest In Peace my friend,'' she wrote on Twitter.

''Oh my god truly devastated for Avicii very very sad news way to young ... what a talent he was. rest in peace x,'' tweeted Liam Payne.

''Rest in peace, Avicii. We lost a legend,'' tweeted DJ Snake.

''Rest easy Avicii, you inspired so many of us. Wish I could have said that to you in person x,'' wrote Ellie Goulding.

Akon tweeted, ''taken too soon #rip Avicii.''

Kaskade said he is heartbroken. ''@Avicii  was talented and kind, and I was genuinely excited to see what would come next from him. His future most certainly should have been written beyond age 28. I am heartbroken. Rest easy Tim,'' he wrote on Twitter.