DJ Tomcraft, known for hit 'Loneliness,' passes away at 49

Tomcraft, German DJ and producer, whose real name was Thomas Brückner, died at the age of 49. Tributes have been pouring in online following the announcement of his death.

The news was announced online by Brückner's family, "With a heavy heart, we need to inform you that yesterday, 15 July 202, our beloved father and husband has passed away. We will forever carry you in our hearts and love you until we're reunited again." Judge Jules wrote that he was a "lovely guy who made one of the greatest records ever".

Tomcraft's track "Loneliness" brought him chart success as he gained fame in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The song reached number eight in the UK in 2002 and topped the charts in 2003.

Thomas was also recognized for his hits "The Circle," "Prosac," and "Silence." He discussed the writing process for "Loneliness" in Jon Kutner and Spencer Leigh's book "1,000 Number One Hits."

Tomcraft explained, "The lyrics say that happiness seems to be loneliness and loneliness killed my world. It doesn't really make much sense to me either - but I prefer it because of that. I like the idea that it is a bit crazy - it's just that kind of record."

"Loneliness" quickly became a global hit, played in clubs worldwide. Reports say that the first time he played it to a club audience, the reaction was "unbelievable," with people "screaming and acting really crazy."

After the release of "Loneliness," Judge Jules reportedly played it on his BBC Radio 1 show for 13 consecutive weeks, according to the BBC.