Late DJ Avicii – real name Tim Bergling – is set to be commemorated in his homeland of Sweden by having a Stockholm arena renamed in his honour.
The stadium, first called Ericsson Globe when it first opened in 1989 – the year Avicii was born – will now be known as ‘Avicii Arena’ in memory of the ‘Levels’ hitmaker.
Speaking to Sky News, the music icon’s father, Klas Bergling, revealed the news of the tribute, saying: “It was a significant milestone in Tim’s career when he played here nine years ago, and he would be extremely proud that this iconic building from today will bear his name.”
Klas added that the Avicii Arena will be “the hub for sharing ideas and host activities with the focus on young people’s mental health”.
At the time of his death from an apparent suicide in April 2018, his publicist confirmed the sad news to Billboard.
“He was found dead in Muscat, Oman this Friday afternoon local time, April 20th,” his publicist Diana Baron said in a statement.
“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.”
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Over the course of his career, Avicii struggled with his physical health. He was hospitalized in 2012 for pancreatitis, cancelled an Ultra Festival appearance in 2013, and cancelled his entire tour in 2014, removing his gallbladder and appendix as a result of what was reported to be heavy drinking.
Bergling retired from touring in 2016, citing his mental and physical health issues.
Check out ‘Wake Me Up’ by Avicii:
