The late Daddy Lumba
Ghana is mourning the death of highlife music icon, Charles Kwadwo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba, who passed away on Saturday, 26 July 2025, at the Bank Hospital in Accra after a short illness. He was 60 years old.
His death was confirmed in an official statement by his family, who expressed their “profound sorrow and deep grief.” The statement added, “During this time of immense loss, we respectfully request privacy for the family and loved ones as they navigate this profound grief. Details of funeral arrangements will be shared in the coming days.”
The legendary musician had been receiving treatment for an undisclosed medical condition before his death. News of his passing has shocked fans across the country and the Ghanaian diaspora, bringing to a close a monumental chapter in Ghanaian music history.
Born in 1964 in Nsuta, Ashanti Region, Daddy Lumba began his music journey in the choir of Juaben Senior High School. He later moved to Germany, where he formed a musical partnership with Nana Acheampong, leading to the release of their 1989 debut album “Yɛɛyɛ Aka Akwantuo Mu.” That project launched a solo career that spanned over 30 albums, making Lumba one of the most prolific and influential musicians in West African music.
From enduring love songs such as “Theresa”, “Aben Wɔ Ha”, and “Pony”, to socially conscious tracks like “Ofon Na Ɛdi Asɛm Fo”, Lumba’s lyrical style was both poetic and bold, often stirring public debate while resonating deeply with everyday Ghanaians. He is widely credited with modernising highlife, fusing it with gospel, pop, and hiplife to create a dynamic sound that captivated multiple generations.
Tributes
Following the announcement of his death, tributes poured in from every corner of the country.
President John Dramani Mahama wrote on his Facebook page: I have learnt with deep sorrow the passing of Ghanaian music legend, Charles Kwadwo Fosu, affectionately known as Daddy Lumba. Lumba’s unmatched musical genius provided the soundtrack to our lives, carrying us through various phases of life. The beats to his memorable songs may have died down, but his enduring legacy will echo through the ages. On behalf of the Government of Ghana, I extend heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones for this irreplaceable loss. #RIPDaddyLumba.”
Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo also paid tribute, stating: “With regret, I have received the sad news of the passing of my dear friend and renowned music icon, Charles Kwadwo Fosu. Daddy Lumba, as we affectionately call him, was a pantheon among musical greats of all time and had a special connection with his fans and the entire nation. His hit-making songs will remain lasting contributions to my presidential journey and will forever be etched in the annals of the political campaign of the New Patriotic Party. He will be sorely missed. May he peacefully rest in the Bosom of the Almighty until the Last Day of the Resurrection, when we shall all meet again.”
Former Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, in a post on X, wrote: “I have been informed of the demise of the Legend, Charles Kwadwo Fosu alias Daddy Lumba. Lumba didn’t only entertain but also inspired and uplifted many of us. His passing is indeed a huge blow to Ghana. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his wife, family, fans, and Ghana. Rest well, LEGEND.”
Rapper Sarkodie also shared a heartfelt tribute on Facebook: “Only if I had the words to express how I’ve been feeling since early this morning, but I don’t… We will all go back to the maker one day, but sometimes it’s hard to even entertain the thought when it involves people close to your heart… RIP DL!!! Thanks for all you’ve done for us… The legacy lives on… Condolences to the family, I pray for strength.”
Other tributes have come from artists including Fameye, Strongman, Stonebwoy, Kidi, Efia Odo, all acknowledging the profound impact of Lumba’s music and personality.
In Accra, fans and well-wishers gathered at the late singer’s home, to express their shock over his death.
Across the country, most radio stations suspended normal programming to play back-to-back Daddy Lumba tracks in honour of his legacy.