Black Midi’s Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin dead at 26
Black Midi guitarist Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin has tragically died aged 26.
Kwasniewski-Kelvin’s family heartbreakingly announced his death in a message published on social media by Rough Trade Records, the record label that Black Midi called home.
The family wrote, “It is with deep sadness that we as a family regret to inform you that Matthew Kwasniewski-Kelvin has died after a long battle with his mental health.”
Kwasniewski-Kelvin’s family described him as not only a “talented musician”, but also a “kind, funny man finally succumbed; despite all efforts.”
The message also urged those reading, “Please take a moment to check in with your loved ones so we can stop this happening to our young men.”
Additionally, Rough Trade Records said, “Rough Trade Records would like to extend deepest sympathy to the Kwasniewski-Kelvin family who have shared this statement on the tragic passing of founding black midi member Matt – an incredibly talented person who will be truly missed.”
The label added, “If you are struggling with mental health issues please reach out to your loved ones or one of the range of charities such as Mind, CALM and Samaritans who provide services and someone to talk to in any time of need.”
Kwasniewski-Kelvin was a founding member of Black Midi in 2017 alongside Geordie Greep, Morgan Simpson and Cameron Picton after they met at BRIT School. They quickly earned a reputation on the South London music scene, performing regularly at The Windmill in Brixton.
The band released three albums, including their Mercury Prize-nominated debut Schlagenheim, which arrived in 2019 and was produced by Dan Carey.
Kwasniewski-Kelvin spoke openly about his mental health struggles, revealing in 2021 that it was the reason why he had been absent from recent Black Midi live shows and had taken a step back from the band.
He told fans on social media, “I’ve been taking some time off from the band as I have been mentally unwell. Because of this, I haven’t featured on forthcoming material. I’ll be back soon.”
As a result of his mental health struggles, Kwasniewski-Kelvin departed the band. He did not appear on their second album, 2021’s Cavalcade or their final studio offering, 2022’s Hellfire.
In 2024, it was confirmed that the South London band had embarked upon an indefinite hiatus.
Tributes have since poured in for the late musician, including from The Windmill in Brixton. The venue wrote on Instagram, “The hardest IG post we’ve ever had to do but after a long battle with mental illness, Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin is no longer wth us. Our deepest condolences to his dad Tony (who came to loads of the early black midi shows) and the rest of the family.”
In the United Kingdom and Ireland, the Samaritans have a helpline which can be reached on 116 123. In the US, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline have a helpline which can be reached on 988.
Never Miss A Beat
The Far Out Music Newsletter
All the latest music news from the independent voice of culture.
Straight to your inbox.