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Black Midi Co-Founder Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin Dead at 26
13
Jan
Jan
The music world has learned devastating news as a member of a highly influential band has passed away far too early in life. It has now been revealed that one of the founding members of the band Black Midi has died.
Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin, Co-Founder of Black Midi, Dies at 26
On January 12th, 2026, the Instagram account for Rough Trade Records announced the passing of a Black Midi founding member, Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin, at only 26 years old. According to a New York Post article on the talented musician’s passing, the statement, that was posted on behalf of Kwasniewski-Kelvin’s family, read the following in part. “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.”
In addition to posting an image of those words from the musician’s family, Rough Trade Records included a caption of their own that paid tribute to Kwasniewski-Kelvin. “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.”
Both the family and the record company also encouraged anyone who is struggling with their mental health to take advantage of support services that are set up to help those in need.
If you or someone you know needs mental health help, text “HOME” to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 or visit their website.
Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin Helped Create Beloved Songs and Influenced Many Artists During His Impressive Music Career
A January, 2026 Pitchfork article published after Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin’s passing detailed how he became an influential part of modern music history. Born in 1999 in London, England, Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin went on to co-found Black Midi in 2017 with Geordie Greep, and Morgan Simpson, before Cameron Picton would soon join them.
Even though he left the band in 2021, Kwasniewski-Kelvin’s contributions to their album “Schlagenheim” played a pivotal role in the band’s most memorable sound. A Guitar World tribute to Kwasniewski-Kelvin described that album as “a remarkable collection of songs with knee-jerk time signature and tempo changes,” which “would go on to be one of that year’s most acclaimed alt-rock albums.” Kwasniewski-Kelvin played a major role in that sound, and he contributed greatly to songs like “bmbmbm,” “953,” ” Near DT, MI,” “Years Ago,” “Western,” and “Speedway.” After leaving Black Midi, he went on to make a guest appearance on Wu-Lu’s 2022 album “Loggerhead” and released a solo song.
An NME article covering Kwasniewski-Kelvin’s death reported that several figures in the music world have posted about his passing in the comments of Rough Trade Records’ Instagram post. Sleaford Mods‘ Jason Williamson wrote “Rest in peace, Matthew. ❤️ Thoughts are with his family,” while Shame declared Black Midi to be the “best band in in London.” DJ Mary Anne Hobbs also commented to express their grief. “I’m so very sad and sorry to hear this tragic news.. Rest in peace Matt, you beautiful genius.”
