Ghana Mourns: Tributes pour in for Highlife Legend Daddy Lumba
Ghana is in mourning following the passing of legendary highlife musician Charles Kojo Fosu, widely known as Daddy Lumba.
The news of his death has sparked a nationwide wave of grief, with fans and fellow artists flooding social media especially platform facebook and X (formerly Twitter) to pay tribute to the iconic singer and his lasting impact on Ghanaian music.
I am heartbroken and sad because a friend has passed. RIP to the legend Daddy Lumba and until we meet again, we will celebrate your time on earth. pic.twitter.com/4mAgK71sfn
— Serwaa Amihere (@Serwaa_Amihere) July 26, 2025
Rest in perfect peace to the legendary Ghanaian highlife singer and songwriter, Charles Kwadwo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba.
Your music shaped generations, and your legacy will live on forever in the hearts of Ghanaians and lovers of highlife across the world. pic.twitter.com/77NFa2tuaQ
— Patrick Yaw Boamah (@pyboamah) July 26, 2025
Maynnnee I’m so sad right now! I gotta try and do a tribute song for the legendary Daddy Lumba
Oseikrom’s finest Charles Kwadwo Fosu!
May you rest in perfect peace pic.twitter.com/j3uhebNM46— Palago Mufasa (@Archipalago) July 26, 2025
Daddy Lumba, legendary Charles Kwadwo Fosu
Ghana’s greatest ever, rest in power 💔🕊️ pic.twitter.com/lsw9uPW0pb— Beno SarkCess (@_BenopaOnyx1) July 26, 2025
RIP Legendary Charles Kwadwo Fosu,❤️Ghana’s all time best musician. pic.twitter.com/lFlAcAwYfF
— Kumasi Mayor (@HenryKnight_) July 26, 2025
The musician’s death was confirmed in a statement issued by his family, describing his final moments as peaceful and surrounded by loved ones. Details about funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days.
Daddy Lumba, celebrated for timeless hits such as “Aben Wo Ha,” “Theresa,” and “Yentie Obiaa,” leaves behind a musical legacy cherished by generations of Ghanaians and fans across the globe.
Profile
Daddy Lumba, born Charles Kwadwo Fosu on September 29, 1964, was a legendary Ghanaian singer-songwriter and musician, widely regarded as the greatest Ghanaian musician of all time. With a prolific career spanning decades, he released 33 albums, many of which became cultural staples and earned critical acclaim.
Lumba’s musical journey began at age 16 while a student at Juaben Senior High School.
There, he formed a group called Lumba Brothers with friends Yaw, Kwabena, and his then-girlfriend, Theresa Abebrese.
After completing school, Theresa played a pivotal role in helping Lumba travel to Germany in search of better opportunities.
It was in Germany that he met Ernest “Nana” Acheampong, who had already formed a music group called Talking Dreams with a German partner.
At the time, Lumba’s background was rooted in gospel music. He credited Nana Acheampong with introducing him to highlife, a genre that would eventually define his career.
Together, they revived the name Lumba Brothers and began planning their first album.
Although they originally intended to release their debut in 1986, financial challenges delayed the project.
With support from Lumba’s wife, Akosua Serwaa, who stepped in as producer, their first album, Yɛɛyɛ Aka Akwantuo Mu, was finally released in 1989.
From there, Daddy Lumba went on to release a string of successful albums, including Aben Wɔha, Awosuɔ, Obi Ate Me So Buɔ, Sika Asɛm, and Ebi Se Ɛyɛ Aduro.
Known for his versatility, he often alternated between gospel and highlife, sometimes surprising fans with controversial lyrics and provocative music videos.
In 1999, he swept the Ghana Music Awards, winning Best Album, Artist of the Year, and Most Popular Song of the Year. By 2002, he had established a remarkable streak—releasing hit albums almost every year.
Despite occasional controversy, Daddy Lumba’s influence on Ghanaian music remains unmatched.
His powerful songwriting, emotive voice, and ability to connect with audiences across generations have solidified his place as a cultural icon.
He was married with 3 children, leaving behind a musical legacy that will continue to inspire and shape Ghana’s music industry for generations to come.