Avicii’s Father: “It’s the industry itself that is the problem, the industry that makes money of the artist”

Avicii’s first posthumous single; ‘SOS’ has warmed the hearts of fans across the globe. To hear his music again. To hear him speak through his most beloved source. However, the song equally sparked sadder emotions. Its sombre lyrics, a cry for help. Despite this, the single is the first of 16 set to appear in a forthcoming album, aptly titled ‘TIM’, set for release in June.

Avicii’s father, Klas Bergling, has been brave over the past year, discussing his son’s passing in front of endless media outlets, while dealing with his death in front of the entirety of the music world. Recently, he, alongside the upcoming album’s co-producers, sat down with Swedish media outlet; Dagans Nyheter to further discuss Avicii, his life and what made Tim, Tim.

“Everyone asks me if it doesn’t feel better now, after a year. They do it with good intentions. But it’s worse. There is another perspective now. I miss him in a much deeper way.” – Klas Bergling

It’s widely known that Avicii’s greatest joy, came from producing more so than touring. Tim, who “could find inspiration in anything” felt most at home, whilst in the studio. Considering himself a producer first, DJ second, the introduction of his long-time manager Arash ”Ash” Pournouri, soon brought unparalleled importance on DJing into the young Swede’s life. At his peak, Avicii performed 350 shows in a calendar year, nearly equivalent to a show each day. With such a heavy touring schedule, life on the road began to take a toll on Tim.

A 2014 sleep deprivation study by Help Musicians UK, found that over 60% of musicians have suffered from depression or other psychological issues, with touring an issue for 71% of respondents. Chronic sleep deprivation can lead to a compromised immune system, increased levels of anxiety and depression, memory and cognitive impairment, and, in extreme cases, a disassociation from reality.

Given the aforementioned information, in combination with alcohol consumption and a hulking touring schedule, Tim was essentially, forcibly pushed into a world of pain. A prime example of one of the dangers of the music industry.

Reflecting on his son’s tragic death, Klas Bergling gave his thoughts on the industry surrounding his son’s profession:

“…It’s the industry itself that is the problem, the industry that makes money of the artist. It’s really hard to stop the machinery

After retiring from touring and parting ways with his management in 2016, Tim soon began to put a primary focus on Tim. Not Avicii. Travelling to the likes of Madagascar, Kenya, Peru and Colombia, he soon developed a greater sense of self. He also found closure in the teachings of Carl Jung, and meditation, as documented in the 2017 film; ‘Avicii: True Stories’. In addition to this, while in Oman, Tim also left a number of notes on his phone, just days before his tragic passing:

“Spread positivity through my music, in message. And enjoy success but not materialistic success”

Despite dealing with the grief of their son’s death, Tim’s parents now dedicate their time to the Tim Bergling Foundation, a foundation dedicated to helping suicide prevention and education on the importance of mental health. The charity will also net all profits made from the forthcoming ‘TIM’ album.

If you or someone you know needs immediate support, contact your country’s suicide prevention hotline.

H/T Dagans Nyheter