On December 31st, Netflix is releasing a highly anticipated documentary about the life and legacy of our long lost hero, Avicii(Tim Bergling). The documentary offers an intimate and powerful look into his life and how he became one of electronic dance music’s most iconic figures. Avicii’s untimely passing in 2018 shook the music world. The documentary reveals the personal journey behind his rise to fame and the pressures he faced along the way. It offers a reflection on the complexities of stardom and rise-to-fame in the modern music industry.
“Before there was Avicii, there was just Tim. For the first time through his own words, witness the journey of a shy but prodigious musical talent who would soon become one of the defining artists of his generation.”
- film synopsis, Netflix
Everybody high and low knows who Avicii is. Now, and during his career his music circulated top radio stations, video productions, social media trends, and more. He has double digit tracks that have a billion plays or more like ‘Wake Me Up‘, ‘Levels‘, and ‘Hey Brother‘. He favored the genres of progressive house and electro-house music but didn’t shy away from being a pioneer. His sound brought EDM into the mainstream, combining folk, rock, and electronic elements. His debut album,”True“, released in 2013, achieved commercial success and solidified his place as one of the world’s best DJs.
The Netflix Documentary: Avicii – I’m Tim
This documentary, directed by Henrik Burman explores the challenges Avicii had navigating fame and its mental and physical challenges. The film delves deep through exclusive footage, behind-the-scenes moments, and interviews with friends, family, and collaborators. His challenges and his desire for a more peaceful existence led to his decision to quit performing live shows. Sadly, the pressures of fame persisted and never truly left him. This raw and emotional exploration will offer fans a deeper understanding of his inner world. Also, will showcase the man who created some of the most beloved anthems in electronic music.
Tim: A book revealing these details before the film
Years before the documentary was announced, a book titled Tim was released, offering a more detailed and personal look at the DJ’s life. If you know very little about the back story of Avicii, you might want to pick this one up before the show. The book covers his struggles with mental health, his personal battles, and his relationships. I personally couldn’t wait until this book was released and read it days after it was published. One thing I read other than the beauty behind the Avicii project was the dark lessons that come with prescribed medication. Hopefully, between the published book and Netflix’s documentary, Tim’s story will bring an awareness to the music scene that everybody should know.
“One day you’ll leave this world behind, so live a life you will remember”
Tim: Tribute album
Since Avicii’s passing, one album I listen to frequently is his tribute album titled “Tim“. His family and collaborators worked to honor his memory through this master piece. Released in 2019, the album features previously unreleased tracks that Avicii had been working on before his death. The album’s release was met with an outpouring of support from the electronic music community.
The Tim album includes the hit single ‘Heaven‘, which was completed by Avicii’s team with input from his family. This track, along with others on the album, reflects the essence of Avicii’s sound. A mix of memorable lyrics, alternative genres, and uplifting melodies. Artists like Aloe Blacc, Rita Ora, ARIZONA, and Imagine Dragons also made an appearance with standout tracks such as ‘SOS‘, ‘Hold The Line‘, and ‘Fades Away‘. This collection serves as a powerful reminder of the impact Avicii had on the music industry and the community he built.
The proceeds from the releases were donated to the Tim Bergling Foundation. Which was established to support mental health awareness and suicide prevention. Through the album, Avicii’s legacy continues to inspire both music lovers, advocates for mental health, and ensures that his story and his message live on. Learn more about this album for this YouTube video.
