What Killed Highlife Icon Daddy Lumba?

Charles Kwadwo Fosu, globally celebrated as Daddy Lumba, died early Saturday morning at the Bank Hospital in Accra, succumbing to a brief illness at the age of 60.
Family Statement
The Fosu family, speaking through legal counsel Baba Jamal & Associates, issued a solemn statement:
“With profound sorrow and deep grief… the passing of Ghana’s beloved musical icon… who passed away earlier today… after a short illness.”
“During this time of immense loss, we respectfully request privacy… Details of funeral arrangements will be shared in the coming days.”
Moments after confirmation, mourners gathered at his residence in East Legon, with tributes from top media figures such as Serwaa Amihere and A‑Plus among those paying respect.
A Life in Music
Born in Nsuta, Ashanti Region, on 29 September 1964, Daddy Lumba began his musical journey in the early 1980s. After leading his high school choir at Juaben Senior High, he co-founded the Lumba Brothers with Nana Acheampong and later launched a flourishing solo career.
Over the past 30+ years, he produced more than 30 albums, including staples like Aben Wo Ha, Theresa, Sika Asem, Playboy, and Yɛɛyɛ Aka Akwantuo Mu—songs that shaped Ghanaian highlife and resonated across Africa.
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In March 2025, his song Mpempem Do Me was featured on King Charles III’s Commonwealth Day playlist on Apple Music—a recognition of his regional and international cultural impact.
Legacy & Impact
Daddy Lumba wasn’t just a musician—he defined an era, blending traditional highlife with contemporary rhythms. For many in Ghana and beyond, his melodies were the soundtrack to love, struggle, resilience, and celebration.
He also founded DL FM (106.9 MHz), a Twi-language radio station in Accra, amplifying his commitment to Ghanaian culture and youth empowerment.
Moving Forward
Plans for funeral and memorial events are expected to be announced in the coming days. The nation, alongside the African diaspora, is setting aside time to honor a man whose music transcended generations and borders.
† Rest in peace, Daddy Lumba. Your legacy will live on in every note, lyric, and beat.
Summary of Key Facts
Item | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Charles Kwadwo Fosu (Daddy Lumba) |
Date of Death | Saturday, 26 July 2025 |
Age | 60 years old |
Place of Death | Bank Hospital, Accra |
Cause | Short illness (unspecified) |
Notable Hits | Aben Wo Ha, Theresa, Yɛɛyɛ Aka Akwantuo Mu |
Career Span | Over three decades |
Albums Released | More than 30 |
Cultural Significance | Ghana’s premier highlife artist |