In brief
French electropop icon and DJ Kavinsky (real name Vincent Belorgey) has died at age 50 after being found dead at his Paris home. His cult‑hit Nightcall, which launched the neo‑noir film Drive and recently topped Shazam charts after the 2024 Olympics, cemented his status in global pop culture. President Macron and culture minister Catherine Pégard issued public tributes, praising his unique influence. Preliminary reports point to a possible stroke, with no sign of foul play, as prosecutors investigate his death.
French electropop icon Kavinsky, real name Vincent Belorgey, has been found dead at his Paris home at the age of 50.
The artist first captured worldwide attention with his signature track Nightcall in 2010, which served as the opening theme for the 2011 neo‑noir crime film Drive starring Ryan Gosling. The song’s atmospheric synthwave sound later became a hit worldwide and, after Kavinsky’s performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics closing ceremony, recorded a Shazam record as the most popular song in a single day.
French President Emmanuel Macron posted a tribute on Facebook, calling the DJ a source of enduring pride for France. Culture Minister Catherine Pégard, speaking on X, described Kavinsky as “one of France’s most unique voices,” noting his impact from Drive to the Olympics and his timeless appeal that crossed generations and borders.
The Paris prosecutor’s office said the DJ was discovered deceased at his residence. Le Figaro reported that he had been suffering from headaches for several days; preliminary investigations suggest a possible stroke. No suspicious items were found, and prosecutors have opened a formal inquiry into the circumstances of his death.
A self‑taught pianist from Seine‑Saint‑Denis, Kavinsky began his career in the early 2000s, opening for French electro pioneers Daft Punk. He was part of the second wave of “French Touch” artists, including Justice and Sebastien. Nightcall was produced with Guy‑Manuel de Homem‑Christo of Daft Punk, mixed by Sebastien and sung by Brazilian vocalist Lovefoxxx; at the Olympics, Belgian singer Angèle provided lead vocals in a memorable rendition alongside Kavinsky and the band Phoenix.
