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Avicii says this year will be his last for live shows and touring

An early retirement to "make the change that I’d been struggling with for a while," he says

Swedish artist Avicii has announced his retirement from DJing and live shows.

Having postponed a run of shows at the end of 2015 due to health issues, the 'Wake Me Up' producer has posted a lengthy statement on Facebook saying his upcoming shows for the rest of the year will be his last.

His post reads: "Thank you for letting me fulfill so many of my dreams. I will be forever grateful to have experienced and accomplished all that I have with the help of the team around me and my beloved fans.

"Thank you to all my peers in the business for building a new movement that took the world by storm and I was lucky enough to be in the middle of it. Thank you to all my partners through the years who believed in what I have created and wanted to amplify my work to a truly global presence."

He singled out his manager Ash Pournouri, XS Nightclub boss Jesse Waits and Semi Baddredine (for his "talks and help in me growing up"), as well as "every fan who has ever bought a ticket or snuck in, bought a song or downloaded it, commented on posts or hated at them".

Real name Tim Bergling, he had to have his gallbladder and appendix removed after falling ill at Ultra Music Festival in 2014, which may have led him to realise he "needed to make the change that I’d been struggling with for a while."

Music production may be something he continues, though, saying: "I will however never let go of music - I will continue to speak to my fans through it, but I’ve decided this 2016 run will be my last tour and last shows. Let’s make them go out with a bang!

"One part of me can never say never, I could be back...but I won’t be right back."

As well as numerous dates at Las Vegas spots XS and Encore Beach Club, he's set to play at Ultra Korea, EDC UK and Creamfields before 2016 is out.

He's even left his mobile number for fans to send him messages. Head here to get the digits and see his statement in full.