Charles Kojo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba, has passed away at the age of 60 after a short illness.
Revered as one of the most influential figures in Ghanaian highlife music, his powerful vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and decades of artistic excellence shaped the soundscape of a nation and touched the lives of millions across generations.
Songs like “Aben Wo Aha,” “Theresa,” “Sika Asem,” and countless others became anthems, soundtracking countless celebrations, heartbreaks, and moments of reflection.
His distinctive vocal delivery and often playful, yet poignant, lyrical content made him an instantly recognizable and beloved voice.
In an official statement released by the Fosu family on Saturday, July 26, 2025, the legendary highlife musician died after a short illness.
“With profound sorrow and deep grief, the Fosu family announces the passing of Ghana’s beloved musical icon, Charles Kojo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba, who passed away earlier today, Saturday, July 26, 2025, after a short illness.
“Daddy Lumba was more than a musician; he was a cultural icon whose music touched countless lives. His soulful voice provided the soundtrack to our love stories, and his poignant lyrics captured the poetry of our struggles, dreams, and resilience.”
The official statement
The statement, signed by Fati Ali Yallah, Esq., counsel for the Fosu family, further called for privacy as the family navigates this moment of immense grief.
“During this time of immense loss, we respectfully request privacy for the family and loved ones as they navigate this profound grief. Details of funeral arrangements will be shared in the coming days.”
The official statement
With a career spanning over three decades and more than 34 albums to his name, Daddy Lumba’s influence on Ghanaian music and culture is immeasurable.
He leaves behind a timeless legacy that shaped generations and inspired millions across Africa and beyond.
His unique fusion of traditional Highlife rhythms with contemporary influences, often dubbed “Burger Highlife,” produced a string of chart-topping hits that resonated deeply with audiences across Ghana and beyond.
His versatility as an artist extends beyond singing to encompass songwriting, composing, and producing. This multi-faceted approach has allowed him to maintain creative control over his work and develop a distinctive sound that has influenced generations of Ghanaian musicians.
With an illustrious career that has spanned over three decades, Daddy Lumba is widely regarded as one of Ghana’s most important cultural figures.
His contributions to highlife music have made him a legendary figure in Ghanaian entertainment, earning him the title of Ghana’s “Highlife GOAT” (Greatest of All Time).
Social media platforms are overflowing with tributes from fans, fellow musicians, political figures, and cultural commentators, all mourning the loss of a true legend. Many are sharing their favorite songs and recalling the profound impact Daddy Lumba’s music had on their lives.
Daddy Lumba’s legacy as a trailblazer, an innovator, and a storyteller will forever be etched in the annals of Ghanaian music history.
While his physical presence may be gone, his melodies and messages will continue to resonate, ensuring that the King of Highlife lives on in the hearts of those he touched. Rest in power, Daddy Lumba.
Tributes Pour in For Daddy Lumba
Ghana has been plunged into mourning following the death of renowned highlife musician Charles Kojo Fosu.
News of the iconic singer’s passing has triggered an outpouring of grief across social media, particularly on platform X, formerly known as Twitter.
Media personality and close friend of Daddy Lumba, Serwaa Amihere, shared, “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.”
The former Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, expressed deep sorrow on his Facebook page over the passing of Daddy Lumba.
“…Daddy Lumba has been a pillar in Ghana’s highlife genre, through whom many great talents have been nurtured and introduced. …His passing is indeed a huge blow, not only to the music fraternity but to the entire country. Samira and I extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, family, fans, and the whole country.”
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia
Fans, celebrities, politicians, and fellow musicians have taken to the platform to honour the life and legacy of the music maestro whose career spanned decades and shaped the sound of modern highlife.
Several other users shared nostalgic memories of growing up with Lumba’s music, praising his unmatched catalogue and influence on the music industry.
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