Ghana has lost a musical giant – Mahama morns Daddy Lumba

President John Dramani Mahama has expressed deep sorrow following the passing of Ghanaian highlife legend, Charles Kwadwo Fosu, affectionately known as Daddy Lumba.

In a heartfelt message shared on Facebook, President Mahama said:

“I have learnt with deep sorrow the passing of Ghanaian music legend, Charles Kwadwo Fosu, affectionately known as Daddy Lumba.

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.

On behalf of the Government of Ghana, I extend heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones for this irreplaceable loss.”

President Mahama’s last encounter with the late musician was on July 1, 2025, during a special luncheon held at the Presidential Villa in Accra. The event, organised in honour of Ghana’s senior citizens, was to celebrate their lifelong contributions to national development and public service. Daddy Lumba was among the distinguished guests recognised at the gathering.

Daddy Lumba passed away on Saturday, July 26, 2025, after a brief illness. He was 60 years old.

Born on September 29, 1964, in Nsuta in the Ashanti Region, Daddy Lumba was one of the most revered figures in Ghanaian music history. His career, which spanned more than three decades, saw the release of over 30 albums—many of them chart-topping hits that defined generations.

Lumba’s musical journey began in the 1980s as a member of the Lumba Brothers, a duo he co-founded with Nana Acheampong. He later launched a successful solo career, with his debut album Yɛɛyɛ Aka Akwantuo Mu in 1989 heralding a new era in highlife.

With hits like Aben Wo Ha, Theresa, Sika Asem, Playboy, and Tokrom, he seamlessly blended traditional highlife rhythms with modern sounds, captivating audiences across Ghana and the diaspora. His music was known not just for its melody, but for its lyrical depth and relatable storytelling.