WATCH: Kygo's emotional Coachella tribute to Avicii was watched by thousands
Avicii died at the age of 28
Last Friday the dance music community was devastated with the news that Swedish DJ Avicii had died at the age of just 28. With one of the biggest music festivals around due to take place over the weekend, it seemed fitting that some of those close to the DJ paid tribute.
Taking to the Coachella stage on Friday evening, only a few hours after hearing the sad news, Kygo paid tribute to his "biggest inspiration", joined by thousands of dance music fans.
As the 'Firestone' DJ brought his set to a close he said, "Today is a very sad day for music. Only today I heard the news that Avicii passed away, only 28-years-old, Avicii was my biggest musical inspiration, and he was the reason I started making music."
Kygo continued, "I don't think I would be on this stage tonight if it wasn't for him, and I know he has inspired millions of other producers out there. So, I want to end my set tonight with my favourite Avicii song."
Watch the emotional tribute below:
He then told his fans to "dance and singalong" to celebrate the life of Avicii. As a photo of the late DJ was shown on the big screens, Kygo played Avicii's recent hit 'Without You'. Then, as the song ended the screens changed to say, 'Avicii, REST IN PEACE, WE WILL MISS YOU, 1989 - 2018'.
After hearing about Avicii's untimely death Kygo reposted a photo of the pair when they met saying, 'Can’t believe this is true..my biggest inspiration and the reason why I started making electronic music. Thank you for all the joy you brought to the world with your music. RIP @avicii'.
He also retweeted the same photo from 2014 when the pair met, calling him his 'biggest inspiration'.
Over the weekend Kygo took to Instagram to post some more photos from his set saying, 'Yesterday was an emotional day. Felt so honored to play Mainstage Coachella, but at the same time so sad to hear the news about Avicii.. Probably wouldn’t have been on that stage if it wasn’t for him and his music. The world lost a musical genius. Thanks to everyone who showed up❤️'. sic
Last Friday, the news that Avicii had died was announced by his representative Diana Baron. The DJ who was known for his hits 'Levels' and 'Wake Me Up', had been found dead in a hotel room in Muscat, Oman.
The statement read, "It is with profound sorrow that we announce the loss of Tim Bergling, also known as Avicii. He was found dead in Muscat, Oman this Friday afternoon local time, April 20th. 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."
On hearing the sad news a number of DJs and celebrities tweeted paying tribute to the DJ including Calvin Harris, Marshmello and David Guetta.