Avicii's New Release Sparks Controversy Over Legacy

Seven years have passed since the passing of Avicii, the renowned Swedish DJ and music producer, whose real name was Tim Bergling. Although the author never met him personally, following his career revealed two significant aspects of his character: he was an introverted individual and a perfectionist regarding his music.

In 2019, when the first posthumous single was released, it elicited feelings of discomfort and unease. The first tribute concert held that same year was described as both emotionally stirring and unsettling, raising hopes that it would be the last such event, which unfortunately was not the case.

Avicii's name has become a focal point of commercialization shortly after his death, often framed within charitable initiatives. Numerous projects have emerged in his honor, including the establishment of studios, museums, auctions, films, and books. His name is frequently mentioned in Swedish media, particularly due to the naming of a major arena in Stockholm after him, which feels particularly disconcerting given the artist's known stage fright.

As his iconic track 'Levels' has been designated as the official song for the Ice Hockey World Championship, a new album featuring Avicii's music is being released by Pophouse, in collaboration with his family. However, this new release is not a compilation of unheard material but rather a collection of his greatest hits, supplemented by a newly created track aimed at maximizing publicity.

The new song, titled 'Let's Ride Away,' has been described as a lackluster blend of steel guitar, brass, stomp beats, and vocals from Elle King, resembling the output of artificial intelligence rather than a genuine artistic endeavor. The reception has been overwhelmingly negative, with many in the music community voicing their discontent.

Criticism has intensified across social media platforms, evolving from whispers of disapproval to more open expressions of dissatisfaction. Recently, Sandro Cavazza, a fellow musician and friend of Avicii, took to Instagram to share his reluctance to release songs he had created with Avicii, highlighting the pressure he faced over the years to do so.

The promotional materials for the new album tout it as a tribute to Avicii's timeless music. However, as time progresses, it becomes increasingly evident that the associations forming around Avicii's name are predominantly linked to financial gain, controversy, and a profound sense of emptiness, diverging significantly from the artistic vision he embodied.