Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin, the co-founding guitarist of the English rock band Black Midi, has died at the age of 26. His family confirmed the news in a statement released by Rough Trade Records, saying his death followed “a long battle with his mental health.”
“A talented musician and a kind, loving man finally succumbed; despite all efforts,” the statement read. “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.”
Kwasniewski-Kelvin grew up playing guitar and attended the BRIT School in London, where he met future Black Midi members Geordie Greep, Cameron Picton and Morgan Simpson. The band’s experimental sound influenced a scene of British acts including Shame and Black Country, New Road.
He played on the band’s 2019 debut album “Schlagenheim” and toured extensively before departing in 2021 due to mental health struggles. Black Midi disbanded in 2024. Kwasniewski-Kelvin later contributed to Wu-Lu’s “Loggerhead” and released a solo recording on Bandcamp in 2024.
If you or anyone you know is having thoughts of suicide, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or go to SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources.
