Highlife Icon’s Death Sparks Tributes
Charles Kwadwo Fosu, known as Daddy Lumba, died on July 26, 2025, at 60 after a brief illness, as confirmed by his family via his official Facebook page. MP Kwame Asare Obeng (A-Plus) revealed President Mahama’s efforts to assist Lumba after noting his poor health at a July 1 Senior Citizens Program, though Lumba delayed engagement for personal reasons.
Lumba’s 40-year career produced over 30 albums, including hits like “Aben Wo Ha” and “Makra Mo,” earning him six Ghana Music Awards, including Artiste of the Year in 2000. His 2018 EMY Africa Icon Award and 2023 Borga Highlife Lifetime Award highlighted his global influence, particularly for pioneering Borga Highlife in Germany.
In 2024, Lumba received the President’s Grand Medal for his contributions to Ghana’s creative arts. His 2008 track “Mpempem Do Me” featured on King Charles III’s 2025 Commonwealth Day playlist, alongside global stars like Beyoncé. Lumba’s music shaped Ghanaian highlife, blending traditional rhythms with modern flair, earning him international acclaim.
Lumba inspired artists like Sarkodie and Kwabena Kwabena, who called him a “godfather.” His provocative lyrics, like those in “Aben Wo Ha,” sparked debates but fueled his popularity. The Fosu family, via lawyer Fati Ali Yallah, requested privacy, with funeral plans pending, as Ghana mourns a cultural icon.
Mahama vowed to ensure a befitting burial, reflecting Lumba’s impact on Ghana’s music and identity. His legacy, marked by innovation and mentorship, leaves an indelible mark on highlife, with fans and artists worldwide grieving the loss of a transformative figure.
Source: GhanaWeb