French DJ and electro‑house musician Kavinsky has been found dead at his home in Paris aged 50.
Vincent Belorgey, known by his red‑eyed zombie alter‑ego Kavinsky, rose to fame with the 2010 track "Nightcall", which opened the 2011 film Drive starring Ryan Gosling.
After the track was played at the Paris 2024 Olympics closing ceremony, it became the most Shazamed song in a single day, cementing Kavinsky’s influence on modern synth‑wave.
French President Emmanuel Macron posted on Facebook: "Kavinsky is a source of French pride forever" (link).
Culture Minister Catherine Pégard added on X: "With the sudden passing of Kavinsky, France has lost one of its most unique voices" (link). She also noted that his music has transcended generations, benefiting from its danceable and nostalgic appeal.
The Paris prosecutor’s office reported that Kavinsky was found dead at his home, and initial findings suggest a possible stroke; no suspicious items were found at the scene.
Le Figaro reported that Kavinsky had complained of headaches in the days before his death, prompting further investigation.
Belorgey was a self‑taught pianist who began his career in the early 2000s, opening for pioneers such as Daft Punk and becoming part of the second wave of French Touch artists.
His track "Nightcall" was produced by Guy‑Manuel de Homem‑Christo of Daft Punk, mixed by Sebastian, and featured vocals by Lovefoxxx.
London Grammar’s 2013 cover of "Nightcall" broadened its audience, and in 2024, Belgian singer Angèle performed a new version with Kavinsky and Phoenix at the Olympic ceremony.
Kavinsky also collaborated with Canadian pop star The Weeknd on a version of "OutRun", the title track of The Weeknd’s 2013 debut album.
