Swedish DJ Avicii announces retirement ahead of Dubai gig

In a massive blow to fans of Electronic Dance Music, Swedish DJ Avicii has announced his retirement mere days ahead of his Dubai gig.

The April 1 concert at Dubai World Trade Centre could be a final swansong of sorts, as the hit maker confessed in an emotional message on his website that he has been ‘struggling with for a while’, adding that he would ‘never let go of music’.

Avicii, whose real name is Tim Bergling, further added: “I will continue to speak to my fans through it [music], but I’ve decided this 2016 run will be my last tour and last shows.”

Emotional goodbye

In an emotional message, the Swedish songwriter and producer thanked his fans, friends in the music industry and supporters, for helping him through his career.

He further stated: “Two weeks ago, I took the time to drive across the US with my friends and team, to just look and see and think about things in a new way. It really helped me realise that I needed to make the change that I’d been struggling with for a while.

“I know I am blessed to be able to travel all around the world and perform, but I have too little left for the life of a real person behind the artist.”

Devastated fans though have hope to hold on to, with Avicii adding that it may not be the end.

He continued: “I will however never let go of music - I will continue to speak to my fans through it, but I’ve decided this 2016 run will be my last tour and last shows. Let’s make them go out with a bang!

“One part of me can never say never, I could be back ...but I won’t be right back.”

Dubai gig

The Dubai World Trade Centre gig on Friday will go ahead, as part of the Peppermint Experience, with fans ready to move at all his legendary hits including ‘Silhouettes’, ‘I Could Be The One’, ‘Hey Brother’ and of course the ‘Levels’.

The 26 year-old, has previously collaborated with huge names including NickyRomero, Aloe Blacc, Wyclef Jean and Chris Martin.

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