Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin, Co-Founder of Black Midi, Passes Away at 26 After Struggling with Mental Health

Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin of Black Midi in Norway in June 2019.
Credit :

Gonzales Photo/Jarle H. Moe/ Alamy

NEED TO KNOW

• Black Midi’s co-founder and former guitarist Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin has died at the age of 26.
• His family stated, “A talented musician and a kind, loving man finally succumbed; despite all efforts,” in a message shared with Rough Trade Records on Monday, Jan. 12.
• Kwasniewski-Kelvin played on Black Midi’s debut album and left the band in 2021 to address mental health concerns.

Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin, co-founder and former guitarist of the band Black Midi, has passed away at the age of 26. His representative confirmed the news on January 12.

In a poignant statement shared through Rough Trade Records, Kwasniewski-Kelvin’s family expressed their grief: “It is with deep sadness that we as a family regret to inform you that Matthew Kwasniewski-Kelvin had died after a long battle with his mental health.” They emphasized his talents and urged others to connect with loved ones to prevent similar tragedies.

The message continued, “A talented musician and a kind, loving man finally succumbed; despite all efforts … 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.”

Rough Trade Records also expressed condolences, stating, “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.” They further encouraged anyone facing mental health hurdles to seek support from trusted individuals or charity organizations like Mind, CALM, and Samaritans.

No cause of death has been disclosed. Kwasniewski-Kelvin was featured on Black Midi’s acclaimed debut album, Schlagenheim, which was nominated for the Mercury Prize in 2019. He departed from the group in 2021 due to mental health challenges.

Morgan Simpson, Geordie Greep, Cameron Picton, and Matt Kelvin of Black Midi in March 2019 in Austin, Texas.

Travis P Ball/Getty

In January 2021, Kwasniewski-Kelvin announced a break from the band due to mental health concerns, stating, “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.” Black Midi expressed their solidarity with him during this period, emphasizing their support for his recovery.

Formed in London in 2017, Black Midi released three albums: Schlagenheim in 2019, Cavalcade in 2021, and Hellfire in 2022. The most recent line-up comprised lead vocalists Geordie Greep and Cameron Picton, alongside drummer Morgan Simpson.

In August 2024, Greep revealed in an Instagram Live that the band was taking a hiatus. This announcement involved a follow-up from Picton, who indicated unexpected circumstances surrounding the band’s status.

The band’s representative noted that Black Midi is currently on hiatus while members pursue solo projects.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, emotional distress, or substance use, support is available through resources such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling or texting 988, or visiting 988lifeline.org, which offers 24/7 assistance.