Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin, co-founding guitarist of English rock band Black Midi, has died after a “long battle with his mental health,” according to a statement from his family. He was 26 years old.
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The news comes via the family’s statement, as shared by Black Midi’s label, Rough Trade Records, on X on Monday (Jan. 12). “A talented musician and a kind, loving man finally succumbed; despite all efforts,” the message reads. “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 also shared a message extending its “deepest sympathy to the Kwasniewski-Kelvin family,” calling the guitarist “an incredibly talented person who will be truly missed.”
Black Midi first rose to prominence in 2019 after developing a following in London, playing gigs at Windmill Brixton. Before Kwasniewski-Kelvin and his bandmates — vocalist Geordie Greep, bassist Cameron Picton and drummer Morgan Simpson — even released their debut album that year, they’d already drummed up enough demand to embark on a tour of Europe and the United States.
Schlagenheim dropped in July 2019 via Rough Trade, giving the world its first sample of Black Midi’s blend of experimental rock. It was followed by Cavalcade in 2021 and Hellfire in 2022, the latter of which debuted at No. 13 on Billboard‘s Top Alternative Albums chart and led to Black Midi topping the Emerging Artists ranking. By that time, however, Kwasniewski-Kelvin had already stepped back from the group, exiting the band after its first album due to him feeling “mentally unwell,” he shared in a statement at the time.
The band was last active in 2023, touring the U.S., Asia, Europe and Latin America before disbanding in 2024.
If you or anyone you know is struggling with mental health or substance abuse disorders, reach out to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration‘s national helpline 24/7 at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for confidential treatment referrals and information. For those who are experiencing suicidal thoughts and/or distress, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 at 1-800-273-8255. You can also call or text 988 to get connected to trained counselors.
