It's a question that lingers in the hearts of fans worldwide: what would Avicii, the Swedish DJ and producer who tragically passed away in 2018, change about his music or career if he were still with us today? To even begin to speculate, we need to look back at his meteoric rise, the pressures he faced, and the evolution he was undergoing as an artist. Avicii, born Tim Bergling, wasn't just a DJ; he was a musical phenomenon. Bursting onto the scene with tracks like "Levels," he quickly became a global icon, headlining festivals and topping charts. His sound, a unique blend of electronic music with country and folk influences, was instantly recognizable and deeply influential. But behind the bright lights and massive crowds, Tim struggled. The relentless touring schedule took a toll on his physical and mental health. He openly spoke about the anxiety and stress that came with the lifestyle, eventually leading to his retirement from live performing in 2016. So, if he were here today, what changes might he have embraced?

A Focus on Mental and Physical Wellbeing

If Avicii were alive today, a significant shift would likely involve a stronger emphasis on mental and physical wellbeing. During his career, the demanding nature of touring and producing took a toll on his health. The constant travel, late nights, and pressure to perform at his peak contributed to significant stress and anxiety. In numerous interviews and in the documentary "Avicii: True Stories," he openly discussed these challenges, highlighting the immense pressure he felt to keep up with the relentless pace of the music industry. He suffered from acute pancreatitis, partly due to excessive alcohol consumption, which he admitted was a way to cope with the stress and anxiety. This health crisis ultimately led to the removal of his gallbladder and appendix in 2014. Recognizing these past struggles, it's plausible that a present-day Avicii would prioritize a more balanced lifestyle. This could involve implementing strategies to manage stress, such as meditation, regular exercise, and spending quality time with loved ones. He might also advocate for healthier touring schedules and better support systems for artists in the electronic music industry. The industry is notorious for its grueling demands, and Avicii's experiences could have driven him to champion initiatives that promote mental health awareness and provide resources for artists struggling with similar issues. Furthermore, he might have taken a more active role in promoting open conversations about mental health within the music community, encouraging other artists to seek help and prioritize their well-being. This could involve partnering with mental health organizations, participating in campaigns, or simply using his platform to share his own experiences and insights. By prioritizing his mental and physical health, Avicii could have continued to create music without sacrificing his well-being. This would not only benefit him personally but also serve as an example for other artists and fans alike, fostering a culture of self-care and awareness within the music industry.

Greater Creative Control and Experimentation

Another area where Avicii might have sought change involves greater creative control and a willingness to experiment even further with his sound. While he achieved massive commercial success, there were instances where he felt constrained by the expectations of the mainstream music industry. He often expressed a desire to push boundaries and explore different genres, but the pressure to maintain his chart-topping status sometimes limited his creative freedom. If he were alive today, Avicii might have been more inclined to take risks and experiment with unconventional sounds. This could involve incorporating elements from genres outside of electronic music, such as classical, jazz, or world music. He had already shown a penchant for blending genres with his incorporation of country and folk influences in tracks like "Wake Me Up," which was a groundbreaking move at the time. Building on this foundation, he could have delved even deeper into uncharted musical territories, creating a truly unique and innovative sound. Furthermore, Avicii might have sought greater control over his music's release and distribution. In the past, artists often had limited say in how their music was marketed and promoted, with record labels holding significant power. However, the rise of independent music platforms and direct-to-fan models has empowered artists to take charge of their careers. Avicii might have embraced these new opportunities, releasing music independently or partnering with smaller, artist-friendly labels that prioritize creative freedom. This would allow him to maintain complete ownership of his work and connect directly with his fans, fostering a more authentic and meaningful relationship. By exercising greater creative control and embracing experimentation, Avicii could have continued to evolve as an artist and push the boundaries of electronic music. This would not only satisfy his own creative aspirations but also inspire other artists to take risks and explore new sonic landscapes.

Deeper, More Personal Musical Themes

Deeper, more personal musical themes might have become a hallmark of Avicii's later work if he were still creating music today. As he matured, both personally and professionally, his perspective on life evolved, and it's reasonable to assume that this would have been reflected in his music. Earlier in his career, many of his tracks focused on themes of celebration, freedom, and youthful exuberance. While these themes resonated with audiences worldwide, it's possible that he would have explored more introspective and complex subjects in his later work. He may have delved into topics such as mental health, personal struggles, and the search for meaning and purpose. Given his own experiences with anxiety and stress, he could have used his music as a platform to raise awareness and promote understanding of these important issues. This could have involved writing lyrics that are more vulnerable and honest, sharing his own challenges and offering messages of hope and resilience. Additionally, Avicii might have explored themes related to social and environmental issues. As a global icon, he had the power to influence millions of people, and he may have felt a responsibility to use his platform to advocate for positive change. This could have involved writing songs about climate change, poverty, or social injustice, using his music to inspire action and raise awareness about these critical issues. By incorporating deeper, more personal themes into his music, Avicii could have connected with his audience on a more profound level. This would not only make his music more meaningful but also allow him to use his platform to make a positive impact on the world. Fans often appreciate when artists are authentic and relatable, and by sharing his own experiences and perspectives, Avicii could have forged even stronger bonds with his listeners.

Collaborations That Transcended Genres

If Avicii were alive, collaborations that transcended genres could have been a significant part of his artistic journey. He had already demonstrated a knack for blending electronic music with other styles, most notably with country and folk in his hit song "Wake Me Up." This collaboration with Aloe Blacc was a game-changer, proving that electronic music could successfully merge with other genres and reach a wider audience. Building on this foundation, Avicii might have sought out collaborations with artists from even more diverse backgrounds. Imagine him working with a classical composer, a jazz musician, or a world music ensemble. These collaborations could have resulted in truly unique and groundbreaking musical experiences, pushing the boundaries of what is considered electronic music. Furthermore, Avicii might have been interested in collaborating with artists from different cultural backgrounds. Music is a universal language, and collaborations between artists from different cultures can create a powerful bridge between people. He could have sought out musicians from Africa, Asia, or South America, incorporating their traditional instruments and musical styles into his electronic productions. This would not only enrich his music but also promote cultural exchange and understanding. In addition to musical collaborations, Avicii might have also explored collaborations with artists from other fields, such as visual arts, film, or dance. He could have created immersive multimedia experiences that combined his music with stunning visuals, captivating films, or dynamic dance performances. These collaborations would have allowed him to express his creativity in new and exciting ways, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of entertainment. By embracing collaborations that transcended genres and fields, Avicii could have continued to innovate and inspire, leaving an even greater impact on the world of music and art.

Championing Emerging Talent

Championing emerging talent would likely have been a priority for Avicii if he were still alive today. Having received support and guidance from established artists early in his own career, he understood the importance of nurturing the next generation of musicians. He often used his platform to showcase up-and-coming DJs and producers, giving them opportunities to perform at his shows and feature their music on his radio show. If he were still with us, Avicii might have formalized these efforts, creating a mentorship program or launching a record label dedicated to discovering and developing new talent. This program could provide aspiring artists with access to resources, guidance, and opportunities that they might not otherwise have. He could offer workshops on music production, songwriting, and the music business, helping young artists develop the skills they need to succeed. Additionally, he could use his connections and influence to help them get their music heard by a wider audience, opening doors to collaborations, performances, and record deals. Furthermore, Avicii might have used his platform to advocate for greater diversity and inclusion within the music industry. He could have actively sought out and supported artists from underrepresented backgrounds, creating opportunities for women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ individuals. This would not only make the music industry more equitable but also enrich the creative landscape by bringing new perspectives and voices to the forefront. By championing emerging talent, Avicii could have left a lasting legacy that extended beyond his own music. He could have helped shape the future of electronic music, ensuring that it remains vibrant, innovative, and inclusive for generations to come. His commitment to supporting young artists would have solidified his reputation as not only a talented musician but also a generous and compassionate human being.

Ultimately, the question of what Avicii would change remains a poignant thought experiment. While we can only speculate, it's clear that his experiences shaped a deep understanding of the pressures and possibilities within the music industry. Perhaps he would have carved a path that prioritized wellbeing, creative freedom, and meaningful connections, leaving behind a legacy that extends far beyond the dance floor.