Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin, co-founder of English rock band Black Midi, has passed away aged 26. His family released a statement, noting that Matt's death came after a long battle with his mental health.
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"It is with deep sadness that we, as a family, regret to inform you that Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin has died after a long battle with his mental health," the statement began. "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 from happening to our young men."
Black Midi was formed in 2017. It was part of the scene that became popular at the Brixton Windmill venue in London. The band's first single, "bmbmbm", was released in 2018. Their debut album Schlagenheim was released the following year, via Rough Trade Records.
Kwasniewski-Kelvin left Black Midi in 2021, sharing concerns about his own mental health. His departure came before the band's second album, Cavalcade, was released.
On Spotify, Black Midi is still an emerging group, drawing in 152,000 listeners per month. Songs like "Welcome To Hell" and "Sugar/Tzu" are some of the more popular. The former drew in a total of 8.2 million streams to date. "Bmbmbm" is also among the most-streamed.
Rough Trade Records Also Released a Statement Over the Death of Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin
Following Matt's family's statement, Rough Trade Records, which releases some of Black Midi's music, released their own statement in the caption of their Instagram post.
"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."
Currently, there is no information regarding Matt's funeral or service. It's likely that his family will keep those ceremonies private, as they say their final goodbyes.
