Ghana is in mourning following the death of one of its greatest musical legends, Charles Kwadwo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba. The iconic highlife musician passed away in the early hours of Saturday, July 26, 2025, at Bank Hospital in Accra, after battling an undisclosed illness.
Family sources confirmed that Daddy Lumba had been hospitalized for several days prior to his death. By midday, heartbroken fans and sympathizers gathered at his East Legon residence to pay their respects and mourn the loss of a national treasure.
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Official Family Statement: “He Was More Than a Musician”
The family, represented by Baba Jamal & Associates, released an emotional statement describing Daddy Lumba as a cultural icon whose music deeply impacted Ghana’s soul.
“Daddy Lumba was more than a musician; he was a cultural icon whose music touched countless lives. His soulful voice provided the soundtrack to our love stories, and his poignant lyrics captured the poetry of our struggles, dreams, and resilience,” the statement read.
The family has asked for privacy as they mourn and stated that funeral arrangements will be announced later. The official statement was signed by Fati Ali Yallah, Esq., counsel for the Fosu family.
Daddy Lumba’s Early Life and Musical Journey
From Juaben SHS to International Stardom
Born on September 29, 1964, in Ghana, Charles Kwadwo Fosuh (Daddy Lumba) started his musical journey at the age of 16 while studying at Juaben Senior High School (SHS). He formed his first group, Lumba Brothers, with classmates and his then-girlfriend, Theresa Abebrese.
After high school, Lumba moved to Germany, supported by Theresa, in search of better opportunities. There, he met Ernest Nana Acheampong, who introduced him to highlife music. Together, they revived the Lumba Brothers name and worked toward their first album.
A Legacy of Music: Over 30 Albums and Numerous Awards
Despite financial struggles, Daddy Lumba released his first album, Yɛɛyɛ Aka Akwantuo Mu, in 1989, with production support from his wife, Akosua Serwaa. He went on to release 33 albums, including:
- Aben Wɔha
- Awosuɔ
- Obi Ate Me So Buɔ
- Sika Asɛm
- Ebi Se Ɛyɛ Aduro
In 1999, he won three Ghana Music Awards, including Best Album, Artist of the Year, and Most Popular Song of the Year. Before 2002, Daddy Lumba consistently released chart-topping albums annually.
A Versatile and Controversial Artist
Daddy Lumba was known for his versatility and fearless approach to music. While some albums had deep gospel roots, others stirred public debate with provocative lyrics and bold music videos. This duality made him a complex, intriguing, and unforgettable artist in Ghanaian music history.
Conclusion: Ghana Bids Farewell to a Highlife Legend
Daddy Lumba’s death marks the end of an era for Ghanaian highlife music. His contributions spanned decades, influenced generations, and provided the soundtrack to Ghana’s modern identity. His voice may be silenced, but his music will live on forever.