French DJ and electropop musician Vincent Belorgey, popularly known as Kavinsky, was discovered dead at his Paris residence on Tuesday evening. He was 50 years old.

The Paris prosecutor's office confirmed the death and has launched an investigation to determine the cause. First responders reported no suspicious circumstances at the scene. Reports suggest Kavinsky had suffered from headaches recently and may have experienced a stroke.

Career and Legacy

Born and raised near Paris in Seine-Saint-Denis, Kavinsky was a self-taught pianist who began his music career in the early 2000s. He gained recognition opening for Daft Punk and crafted a unique artistic persona as a red-eyed zombie DJ, deliberately separating his music from his personal identity.

His 2010 track Nightcall, produced with Daft Punk's Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo and featuring vocals by Brazilian singer Lovefoxxx, became his signature song. It gained widespread acclaim after featuring in the opening credits of the film Drive starring Ryan Gosling.

The song set a record as the most Shazamed track in a single day following Kavinsky's performance during the closing ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, where he shared the stage with Belgian singer Angèle and French band Phoenix.

Tributes from Music and Leadership

  • The Weeknd expressed heartbreak and vowed to honour Kavinsky's legacy, citing their collaboration on the track Odd Look.
  • David Guetta called Kavinsky a “true icon of French electronic music” who created a distinctive sound that will continue to inspire.
  • French President Emmanuel Macron described Kavinsky as “a source of French pride forever.”
  • Culture Minister Catherine Pégard highlighted Kavinsky’s unique voice and global impact from Drive to the Olympics.
  • Composer Jean-Michel Jarre shared a personal tribute recalling their close friendship.
  • Gaspard Auge of Justice offered a brief but emotional farewell.

Belgian singer Angèle also mourned the loss, sharing a photo with Kavinsky and reflecting on their unforgettable moments together on stage.

Kavinsky’s influence on electronic music and pop culture remains significant, with his mysterious persona and cinematic soundscapes leaving an enduring mark.