Avicii performs at Verizon Wireless Amphitheater on May 31, 2014 in Irvine, California.
One day after postponing all scheduled performances, Avicii today (Sept. 3) released the two music videos that contributed to his decision.
Avicii Postpones All Scheduled Tour Dates: Exclusive
The 26-year-old makes his directorial debut with Levan Tsikurishvili on the clips for "For a Better Day" and "Pure Grinding" off his recent double single release.
Filmed in Hungary this summer, both videos were intended to tackle social themes. "For a Better Day" stars Swedish actor Krister Henriksson and addresses child trafficking, while "Pure Grinding" channels Sergio Leone in the context of gang violence.
“All the songs have a story I wanted to tell,” says Avicii. "“The promise of a better life often traps families and children into being used as tools for some of the most despicable people on earth. It’s an issue about which I hope to start a louder discussion, especially now with the huge number of families on the move from war torn countries looking for safety and shelter.”
Avicii - "For a Better Day"
Avicii - "Pure Grinding"
Avicii's 14-track sophomore album Stories will be released on Oct. 2 through PRMD/Island Records, and can be pre-ordered here.