Retiring at 26! Avicii announced his retirement from live performances and touring after his 2016 show dates are over, in a long, emotional letter to fans on his website.
“Two weeks ago, I took the time to drive across the U.S. with my friends and team, to just look and see and think about things in a new way,” the 26-year-old Swedish DJ (né Tim Bergling) wrote. “It really helped me realize that I needed to make the change that I’d been struggling with for a while.”
“My choices and career have never been driven by material things, although I’m grateful for all the opportunities and comforts my success has availed me,” the Grammy-nominated artist continued. “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.”
The “Levels” hitmaker has struggled with health issues over the past few years and was forced to cancel several shows after having his gallbladder and appendix removed. He has toured consistently since 2013.
“I will however never let go of music — I will continue to speak to my fans through it,” the EDM artist said. “But I’ve decided this 2016 run will be my last tour and last shows. Let’s make them go out with a bang!”
Although Avicii’s finished with live music for now, he’s open to the possibility of a comeback. It’s also possible the big-time producer, who has worked with artists such as Madonna and Lenny Kravitz, will collaborate with other musicians in the future. “One part of me can never say never, I could be back … but I won’t be right back,” he wrote.