The family of veteran Ghanaian gospel musician Yaw Sarpong has officially announced details for his final funeral rites, bringing a wave of tributes and reflections across the nation’s gospel music fraternity.
The legendary singer, widely revered for his contributions to Akan gospel highlife, will be laid to rest on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at the Asuofua Town Park.
A wake-keeping is scheduled for Friday, May 8, at the same location, with a thanksgiving service set to follow on Sunday, May 10, at Sokoban.
The family has invited Ghanaians and sympathizers to join them in giving their beloved a dignified farewell.
“We have planned that there will be a wake-keeping for Yaw Sarpong on May 8. The funeral and burial ceremony will be held on May 9, 2026, at Asuofua Town Park,” a family statement shared on social media read.
They further appealed for support as they account for expenses after the events.
Yaw Sarpong was born around the 1951 and passed away on January 20, 2026 at age 66, after battling a prolonged illness.
His death came weeks after the passing of his longtime collaborator, Maame Tiwaa, the lead female vocalist of the Asomafo Band, compounding the grief within Ghana’s gospel community.
A prolific songwriter and bandleader, Yaw Sarpong’s career spanned nearly five decades. He released his debut album, Adesrede, in 1981 and went on to produce timeless hits such as “Awurade Kasa,” “Tie Obiaa,” and “Wo Haw Ne Sen.”
As the founder and leader of Yaw Sarpong & The Asomafo, he played a pivotal role in shaping indigenous Akan gospel music, blending highlife rhythms with powerful spiritual messages that resonated deeply with audiences across Ghana and the diaspora.
Born in Accra as the son of a former Member of Parliament from the Kwame Nkrumah era, Yaw Sarpong’s early life was marked by challenges.
He later found solace and purpose in music, joining a Methodist singing group in Asuofua before rising to national prominence.
His music not only entertained but also ministered, offering comfort, faith, and cultural pride to generations of listeners.
Public Reaction
News of his passing in January triggered an outpouring of condolences from musicians, politicians, and fans.
Many described him as a “pillar” and “legend” whose influence helped define contemporary Ghanaian gospel. Artiste manager Nana Poku Ashis was among those who confirmed the sad news early on.
As the funeral date approaches, preparations in Asuofua and Kumasi are in full swing.
The events are expected to draw large crowds of mourners, fellow artistes, and admirers paying their last respects to a man whose voice and compositions touched countless souls.
Yaw Sarpong’s legacy endures through his extensive discography and the artists he mentored.
In an era where gospel music continues to evolve, his foundational work in highlife-infused worship remains a benchmark.
His passing marks the end of an era, but his songs promise to live on, offering hope and inspiration for years to come.
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