Former black midi guitarist Matthew Kwasniewski-Kelvin has died. The sad news came via a statement released by his family via Rough Trade Records, saying it was “after a long battle with his mental health.” He was 26. Here’s the statement in full:
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.
A talented musician and a kind, loving young man finally succumbed; despite all efforts. Matt was 26 years old.
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 wrote, “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. 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.”
Former black midi frontman Geordie Greep has posted a lengthy tribute to Matthew on his Instagram. “He changed my life in more ways than I can ever explain or repay,” Greep wrote. “Thank you Matt, thank you so much for being my friend. Thank you for helping me in so many ways. Thank you for being brave and courageous enough to believe in the dream we had together, and brave and courageous enough to battle through the awful thing you had to for as long as you did. We had a dream when we were 14 years old of making crazy music and playing it around the world, being able to make music on our own terms and be able to do it for a living – and we bloody did. We did and in a short time too.” Read the whole tribute below.
Kwasniewski-Kelvin was an original member of black midi but left in 2020; the group went on indefinite hiatus in 2025.
Rest easy, Matthew.