Daddy Lumba passes away at age 60.

Ghanaians are mourning the loss of one of the nation’s most iconic musicians, Charles Kojo Fosu, widely known as Daddy Lumba, who has passed away at the age of 60.

In a statement released by his family, it was confirmed that the legendary highlife artist died in hospital on Saturday after a brief illness. The statement described him as “a cultural icon whose music touched countless lives” over a career that spanned nearly four decades.

Kofi Okyere-Darko, Director of Diaspora Affairs at the Office of the President, hailed Lumba as “the greatest from Ghana in the last 100 years.” Known for his profound influence on Ghanaian music, Daddy Lumba inspired a generation of artists to pursue highlife ,a genre deeply rooted in the country’s musical heritage.

Throughout his career, he released 33 albums and more than 200 songs, exploring themes of love, beauty, forgiveness, death, wealth, and broader social issues.

President John Mahama paid tribute to the star on Facebook, writing:
“Lumba’s unmatched musical genius provided the soundtrack to our lives, carrying us through different stages of life. Though the beats of his memorable songs may have faded, his legacy will resonate through time.”

Former Vice-President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia also expressed his grief, calling the loss “a huge blow not just to the music industry, but to the entire nation.”

Fellow artists including Sarkodie, Guru, Sista Afia, and M.anifest extended their condolences to the family, praising Lumba for the extraordinary talent he shared with the world.

Lumba last performed publicly during a Valentine’s Day concert on 15 February 2025, sharing the stage with some of Ghana’s top musicians. The event was attended by numerous political and influential figures. Earlier this July, he appeared at a Republic Day celebration hosted at the seat of government, where he met with President Mahama.

He had been scheduled for a tour across the United States and Canada later this year.

Among his most celebrated albums are Sika Sem, Aben Wo Ha, Wo Ho Kyere, Awosoo, Give Peace A Chance, and Ahenfie Kyinkye. His last release, Ofon Na Edi Asem Fo, came out in December 2022.