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Kavinsky told NME how another collab with The Weeknd could have been on the way “soon”
French electronic producer Kavinsky, real name Vincent Belorgey, has died at the age of 50 after being found at his home in Paris on Tuesday 28 July 2026. Investigators have opened a probe into the cause of death, though first responders reportedly found "no suspicious elements" at the scene. In a February 2022 interview with NME, resurfaced following his death, Kavinsky revealed that a further collaboration with The Weeknd could be released "soon", after the pair had worked together on a version of "Odd Look" in 2013.
Kavinsky was best known for "Nightcall", the synthwave track that soundtracked Nicolas Winding Refn's 2011 film Drive, and which he later performed alongside Phoenix and Angèle at the closing ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics. In the 2022 interview he described being introduced to The Weeknd by fellow producer Prince 85, calling him "still such a nice guy" and suggesting new material was likely, though no further joint release emerged before Kavinsky's death. The Weeknd paid tribute on social media, calling Kavinsky "an inspiration to so many" and vowing to "continue to honour your name and your music".
In short
- French producer Kavinsky has died aged 50 in Paris
- He hinted at a new Weeknd collaboration in a 2022 interview
- The Weeknd paid tribute, calling him "an inspiration"
Explained simply
Kavinsky was a French electronic music producer best known for "Nightcall", the synthwave track from Nicolas Winding Refn's 2011 film Drive. The song became his signature work and demonstrated the enduring appeal of his minimalist electronic style. He performed "Nightcall" at the 2024 Paris Olympics closing ceremony alongside Phoenix and Angèle, showing the track's continued relevance.
The Weeknd is a Canadian musician known for blending electronic, R&B and pop music. Kavinsky and The Weeknd first worked together in 2013 on a version of "Odd Look". In a 2022 interview with NME, Kavinsky suggested that he and The Weeknd might collaborate again, describing his fellow artist positively and hinting that new material could emerge.
This 2022 statement offers insight into Kavinsky's creative ambitions and his interest in continuing his artistic partnership with The Weeknd. The exchange reflects the mutual professional respect that had developed between the two musicians.