Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin, the guitarist and founding member of rock group Black Midi, has died aged 26.
The band formed in London in 2017, playing in pubs such as the famed Windmill in Brixton, and released their debut album two years later.
Kwasniewski-Kelvin played alongside bandmates Geordie Greep, Cameron Picton, and Morgan Simpson until 2020, when he stepped away due to mental health issues.
Record label Rough Trade posted the news to their Instagram, announcing with ‘deep sadness’ that Kwasniewski-Kelvin had died.
‘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,’ the post read.
Praising him as a ‘talented musician and a kind, loving young man’, the label said he had ‘finally succumbed, despite all efforts’.
They continued: ‘He will always be loved. Please take a moment to check in with your loved ones so we can stop this happening to our young men.’
Tributes to the late musician filled the post, with Rough Trade urging anyone ‘struggling with mental health issues’ to reach out to charities like Mind, Calm and the Samaritans.
Black Midi originally met while attending BRIT School together, meeting during jam sessions before formally starting the band.
Schlagenheim, their debut studio album, managed to crack the UK album charts top 50 to wide critical acclaim and was nominated for a Mercury Prize.
They released an anthology album of spoken-word tracks and live recordings in 2020, which marked Kwasniewski-Kelvin’s final record with the group.
At the time of his exit, he shared: ‘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.’
The band wrote that they were ‘fully behind our best mate in his recovery and can’t wait ’til we can all be + play together again soon.’
‘It almost goes without saying but please respect Matt’s right to privacy surrounding this,’ they added at the time, telling people to reach out if they needed support.
After his departure, Black Midi released two further albums but went on an indefinite hiatus in August 2024, with the members pursuing solo works.
Need support?
For emotional support, you can call the Samaritans 24-hour helpline on 116 123, email [email protected], visit a Samaritans branch in person or go to the Samaritans website.
Their HOPELINE247 is open every day of the year, 24 hours a day. You can call 0800 068 4141, text 88247 or email: [email protected].
