Accra, Ghana – July 27, 2025 – Former President of Ghana, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, has led tributes following the passing of Ghanaian music icon, Charles Kwadwo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba.
In a solemn message shared with the nation, President Mahama expressed deep sorrow at the news of the music legend’s death, describing Daddy Lumba as a “rare gem” whose music not only entertained but shaped Ghana’s cultural and emotional identity across generations.
“I have learnt with deep sorrow the passing of Ghanaian music legend, Charles Kwadwo Fosu, affectionately known as Daddy Lumba,” President Mahama wrote. “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.”
He continued, “On behalf of the Government of Ghana, I extend heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones for this irreplaceable loss. Ghana has lost a voice, a poet, and a national treasure.”
A Lifelong Impact Through Music
Daddy Lumba, who passed away in the early hours of Saturday, July 26, 2025, after a short illness, was 59 years old. The news of his death was confirmed by the family in an official statement signed by legal representative Fati Ali Yallah, Esq.
Born on September 29, 1964, Daddy Lumba was widely regarded as the most influential highlife musician in Ghana’s modern era. With a career spanning over three decades and more than 30 studio albums, his songs became permanent fixtures in the lives of Ghanaians—accompanying weddings, funerals, and everyday moments alike.
President Mahama, who has often spoken publicly about his admiration for Ghanaian music, noted that Lumba’s impact went beyond entertainment. “His music comforted us in pain, inspired us in love, reminded us of our heritage, and often made us laugh or reflect. In Daddy Lumba, Ghana found an artist whose melodies told the story of a people.”
Tributes Pour in from All Walks of Life
Following President Mahama’s tribute, a wave of condolences has poured in from musicians, politicians, cultural leaders, and fans both in Ghana and the diaspora. Social media platforms have been flooded with old photos, favourite lyrics, and emotional reflections on what Daddy Lumba’s music meant to various generations.
Stonebwoy, one of Ghana’s top music stars, shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram:
“As hard as this hits 💔, I am only comforted in the firm trust that a true legend never dies. I count myself blessed to have come in touch with a rare one who shaped the sound of Ghana, the African sound, and influenced generations. So long as the state and nation preserve his legacy, he will live forever. RIP Daddy Lumba.”
The Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) also released a statement describing Lumba’s death as “a monumental loss to the creative industry” and pledged to honour him through a memorial concert and educational programs for emerging musicians.
A National Icon Beyond Music
Known for hits such as Aben Wo Ha, Yɛɛyɛ Aka Akwantuo Mu, Theresa, and Playboy, Daddy Lumba had a rare ability to blend traditional Ghanaian sounds with contemporary rhythms, making his music relevant across generations.
President Mahama highlighted this unique legacy in his message, noting:
“His genius was not just in lyrics or beats—it was in his ability to evolve while staying rooted in our cultural identity. He made us proud to be Ghanaian.”
Beyond music, Daddy Lumba was a trailblazer in fashion and branding. His flamboyant style, sunglasses, and signature hair became part of his larger-than-life persona. He was a symbol of confidence, creativity, and resilience.
In 2018, he launched DLFM, a radio station dedicated to promoting Ghanaian music, particularly highlife. The station became a platform for celebrating local talent and preserving the country’s musical heritage.
A Call to Preserve His Legacy
In his tribute, President Mahama also made a passionate call for Ghana to institutionalize Daddy Lumba’s legacy through national efforts.
“I strongly believe that the Government, cultural institutions, and the music industry must work together to preserve and celebrate the legacy of Daddy Lumba. His life’s work deserves to be studied, documented, and promoted to future generations.”
There are growing calls for the establishment of a Daddy Lumba Music Museum or an annual music and cultural festival in his honour.
The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture has indicated that discussions are ongoing with the family for a possible state-assisted funeral. The National Commission on Culture has also offered to support the documentation of his musical archive for educational and historical purposes.
Final Farewell Plans Underway
The family of the late musician has asked for privacy as they prepare funeral arrangements. In a brief note to the media, they thanked Ghanaians for the overwhelming love and support shown in this difficult time.
The Ghana Music Rights Organisation (GHAMRO) has pledged logistical and financial support to the family and has called on stakeholders to unite in giving Lumba a befitting send-off.
Fans have already begun gathering outside the musician’s residence in Accra, leaving flowers, candles, and handwritten notes expressing their admiration and grief.
End of an Era, Beginning of Immortality
For President Mahama and many Ghanaians, Daddy Lumba’s passing marks the end of a musical era—but not the end of his influence.
“He may be gone in the physical sense,” Mahama stated, “but through his music, his spirit will remain ever-present in the heartbeat of Ghana. He sang our stories—and in doing so, became part of them.”
As the nation prepares to celebrate his life and say its final farewell, one thing is certain: the name Daddy Lumba will forever live in the hearts of Ghanaians as one of the greatest musical icons the country has ever known.
