Black Midi Guitarist Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin Dead at 26 in Tragic Battle with Mental Health
Tragedy has struck the music world as Black Midi guitarist Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin, just 26 years old, passed away after a long battle with mental health. The news was confirmed by his family's statement via Rough Trade Records, confirming that he died despite all efforts to support him.
Kwasniewski-Kelvin was the founding member and guitarist of Black Midi, a South London band formed in 2017. Alongside Geordie Greep, Cameron Picton, and Morgan Simpson, Kwasniewski-Kelvin created an incredibly talented sound that secured them a Mercury Prize nomination for their debut album "Schlagenheim" released in 2019.
Tragically, Kwasniewski-Kelvin had to leave the band in January 2021 due to mental health issues. He continued to contribute to their subsequent albums as a songwriter but did not perform on record. His passing has left an outpouring of tributes from fellow musicians and fans who remember him fondly.
"We are still in shock," said Mary Anne Hobbs, BBC host and DJ, adding "I'm so very sad and sorry to hear this tragic news... Rest in peace Matt, you beautiful genius."
Jason Williamson from Sleaford Mods echoed similar sentiments saying, "Rest in peace, Matthew. Thoughts are with his family." Other notable tributes came from Fontaines D.C.'s Connor Deegan III who wrote, "Rest in peace x" and a fan who shared, "Black Midi is one of the most creative bands I've heard in all my life. Please check on your loved ones, you never know what's going on."
Kwasniewski-Kelvin's passing serves as a stark reminder of the importance of mental health support. If struggling with such issues or if someone you know does, it is crucial to reach out to loved ones, mental health charities like Mind, CALM and Samaritans, who provide invaluable services and someone to talk to in any time of need.
Rest in peace Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin; your music lives on.
Tragedy has struck the music world as Black Midi guitarist Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin, just 26 years old, passed away after a long battle with mental health. The news was confirmed by his family's statement via Rough Trade Records, confirming that he died despite all efforts to support him.
Kwasniewski-Kelvin was the founding member and guitarist of Black Midi, a South London band formed in 2017. Alongside Geordie Greep, Cameron Picton, and Morgan Simpson, Kwasniewski-Kelvin created an incredibly talented sound that secured them a Mercury Prize nomination for their debut album "Schlagenheim" released in 2019.
Tragically, Kwasniewski-Kelvin had to leave the band in January 2021 due to mental health issues. He continued to contribute to their subsequent albums as a songwriter but did not perform on record. His passing has left an outpouring of tributes from fellow musicians and fans who remember him fondly.
"We are still in shock," said Mary Anne Hobbs, BBC host and DJ, adding "I'm so very sad and sorry to hear this tragic news... Rest in peace Matt, you beautiful genius."
Jason Williamson from Sleaford Mods echoed similar sentiments saying, "Rest in peace, Matthew. Thoughts are with his family." Other notable tributes came from Fontaines D.C.'s Connor Deegan III who wrote, "Rest in peace x" and a fan who shared, "Black Midi is one of the most creative bands I've heard in all my life. Please check on your loved ones, you never know what's going on."
Kwasniewski-Kelvin's passing serves as a stark reminder of the importance of mental health support. If struggling with such issues or if someone you know does, it is crucial to reach out to loved ones, mental health charities like Mind, CALM and Samaritans, who provide invaluable services and someone to talk to in any time of need.
Rest in peace Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin; your music lives on.