Self-taught pianist Belorgey was born on the outskirts of Paris, in Seine-Saint-Denis. And he launched his career in the early 2000s, opening for French electro pioneers Daft Punk.
Kavinsky – his red-eyed zombie DJ alter ego – was part of the second wave of influential “French Touch” artists including the likes of Justice and Sebastian.
Nightcall was produced with Daft Punk’s Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo, mixed by Sebastian and sung by Brazilian singer Lovefoxxx.
The track was covered by London Grammar in 2013, taking it to an even broader audience.
At Paris 2024, though, Belgian singer Angèle took on lead vocal duties, performing a memorable version of it, external to close the games alongside Kavinsky and French band Phoenix.
She posted a picture of herself with the late DJ and producer on her Instagram story on Wednesday. “Immense sadness,” she wrote above the photograph., external
“Thank you for letting me experience that unforgettable moment on stage with you, and the entire adventure that followed.”
Kavinsky collaborated with another singer, Canadian star The Weeknd on a version of a different track OddLook, taken from his 2013 debut album OutRun.
The Starboy singer, whose real name is Abel Tesfaye, also paid his respects on X, external, offering: “So heartbreaking to hear the news.
“An inspiration to so many, including myself.
“I will continue to honour your name and your music. Rest easy, Kavinsky.”
The Mayor of Paris, Emmanuel Gregoire, expressed his “deep sadness” via the same platform., external
“A child of Paris, he carried the colours of the French electronic scene high across the world, establishing a unique musical universe imbued with both nostalgia and modernity,” he wrote.
“In this moment of mourning, my thoughts go to his family, his loved ones, and all those who found themselves in his music.”
