French DJ and electro‑house pioneer Kavinsky, whose real name was Vincent Belorgey, was found dead at his residence in Paris at the age of 50.
Born in Seine‑Saint‑Denis, the outskirts of Paris, Belorgey built his career in the early 2000s, opening for French techno trailblazers Daft Punk and co‑creating the atmospheric synth‑heavy track "Nightcall" with the duo.
"Nightcall" became a cult anthem, earning its place as the opening theme for the 2011 neo‑noir film Drive starring Ryan Gosling. The track’s sleek, pulsating rhythm has since seen countless covers, including a 2013 version by London Grammar.
Kavinsky’s music was celebrated worldwide again when he performed at the closing ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. That rendition made "Nightcall" the most Shazamed song in a single day ever recorded by the music‑identification app.
The Paris prosecutor’s office confirmed the discovery of Kavinsky’s body. A spokesperson said no foul play was suspected; investigators are exploring a natural cause such as a stroke after a period of reported headaches.
French President Emmanuel Macron posted on Facebook, describing Kavinsky as "a source of French pride forever." Culture Minister Catherine Pégard echoed the sentiment on X, noting that France had lost "one of its most unique voices," and that his music would continue to cross centuries and borders.
The late DJ also shared musical spaces with artists like Canadian singer The Weeknd—co‑producing the track "OutRun" from The Weeknd’s debut album—and colliding sounds with the French collective Phoenix during Paris 2024.
Kavinsky’s death leaves a quiet vacancy in the world of synthwave and French electronic music, yet his legacy endures, resonating with fans and protégés alike.
