Kavinsky, French electronic music pioneer behind 'Nightcall', dies aged 50

Kavinsky, French electronic music pioneer behind 'Nightcall', dies aged 50
French DJ Kavinski performs during the 'Fete de la Musique', the music day celebration, France, 21 June 2018. Picture taken 21 June 2018
Reuters

French DJ and electropop musician Kavinsky, whose atmospheric sound shaped a generation of electronic music fans, has died at the age of 50, French authorities said on Tuesday.

The artist, born Vincent Belorgey, was found dead at his home in Paris on Tuesday evening, according to a statement from the Paris prosecutor's office.

Prosecutors said an inquiry had been opened to determine the cause of death. They added that first responders found no suspicious circumstances at the scene.

Kavinsky became an internationally recognised name with Nightcall, released in 2010. The track gained worldwide popularity after featuring in the 2011 film Drive, starring Ryan Gosling, and went on to become one of the defining electronic songs of the decade.

Blending synthwave, electro and cinematic influences, Kavinsky developed a distinctive style inspired by 1980s popular culture and retro-futuristic aesthetics, earning a devoted following around the world.

Paris Olympics performance revived his iconic hit

Kavinsky returned to the international spotlight in 2024 when he performed Nightcall during the closing ceremony of the Paris Olympic Games. The performance introduced the song to a new generation of listeners and became one of the ceremony's standout musical moments.

Paris 2024 Paralympics - Closing Ceremony - Paris, France - September 8, 2024 Kavinsky performs during the closing ceremony
Reuters

French authorities have not released further details about the circumstances of his death. The investigation remains ongoing.

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