French DJ and electropop pioneer Vincent Belorgey, better known by his alter‑ego Kavinsky, was found dead at his Paris home at the age of 50.
Belorgey, who had been diagnosed with headaches for several days, earned international acclaim in 2010 with the synth‑wave single "Nightcall," which featured in the opening credits of the neo‑noir film Drive and later became the most‑Shazamed song of a single day in the app’s history after its performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics closing ceremony.
President Emmanuel Macron sent a tribute on Facebook, saying the late DJ was "a source of French pride forever." Culture Minister Catherine Pégard added on X, "With the sudden passing of Kavinsky, France has lost one of its most unique voices," noting how "Nightcall" moved audiences worldwide and will continue to transcend generations and borders.
The Paris prosecutor’s office confirmed that Kavinsky had been found dead at his home, with no suspicious items discovered at the scene. Authorities have opened an investigation to determine the cause of death, with early indications pointing to a stroke.
Born in Seine‑Saint‑Denis outside Paris, Belorgey self‑taught piano and began his career in the early 2000s, opening for French electro pioneers Daft Punk. His alter‑ego Kavinsky was a central figure in the French Touch movement, alongside peers like Justice and Sebastien.
The original "Nightcall" track was produced with Guy‑Manuel de Homem‑Christo of Daft Punk, mixed by Sebastien, and sung by Brazilian vocalist Lovefoxx. At Paris 2024, Belgian singer Angèle performed the track’s memorable version with Kavinsky and the French band Phoenix.
The BBC is awaiting confirmation from the DJ’s representatives and coverage continues to evolve as more information emerges.
