In brief
Vincent Belorgey, better known as Kavinsky, died at his Paris residence at 50. The French producer and DJ’s eerie alter‑ego was celebrated worldwide after the 2011 film Drive and the Paris 2024 Olympic closing ceremony. French leaders, including President Macron and Culture Minister Catherine Pégard, paid tribute to his legacy. The exact cause of death is under investigation, with initial reports pointing to an possible stroke. Kavinsky’s music continues to influence generations of electronic artists.
French DJ and electro‑house musician Kavinsky has been found dead at his home in Paris aged 50.
The star, real name Vincent Belorgey, earned international fame with 2010’s "Nightcall", the opening track of the 2011 neo‑noir film Drive.
His performance in the closing ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympics propelled the modern synth‑wave track to become the most Shazamed song in a single day in the app’s history.
President Emmanuel Macron posted on Facebook that Kavinsky was "a source of French pride forever," while Culture Minister Catherine Pégard tweeted that France had lost "one of its most unique voices" as he emerged from the film and the Games.
Authorities say Kavinsky was found dead at his Paris home, with early reports suggesting a possible stroke after days of headaches. No suspicious items were found and an investigation into the cause of death has been opened.
Born in Seine‑Saint‑Denis, a self‑taught pianist, Belorgey launched his career in the early 2000s, opening for French electro pioneers Daft Punk and become a key figure in the "French Touch" movement alongside Justice and Sébastien.
"Nightcall" was produced with Guy‑Manuel de Homem‑Christo, mixed by Sébastien, and featured vocals by Brazilian singer Lovefoxx. London Grammar’s 2013 cover broadened its reach, and at Paris 2024, Belgian singer Angèle joined Kavinsky and Phoenix for a memorable rendition.
The late DJ also worked with Canadian singer The Weeknd on a remix of OutRun, the title track from his 2013 debut album.
