Charles Kwadwo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba, one of Ghana’s most celebrated highlife musicians, has passed away at the age of 60, his family confirmed. The iconic singer died on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at The Bank Hospital in Accra following a brief illness.

In a statement, his family expressed their profound grief, saying they are “devastated by the loss” and requested privacy during this period of mourning. Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced.

Daddy Lumba, often regarded as the greatest Ghanaian musician of all time, had a career spanning over three decades, producing 33 albums and nurturing the careers of numerous artists, including Ofori Amponsah and Nana Acheampong. His debut album, *Yereye Aka Akwantuo Mu* (1989), with Acheampong as part of the Lumba Brothers, resonated deeply with Ghanaians, addressing themes of migration and diaspora life. His soulful lyrics and romantic ballads, such as *Theresa* (1990) and *Poison* (2001), earned him a devoted following across generations.

The musician’s contributions to highlife music were recognised with multiple accolades, including the 2018 Icon/Legend of Entertainment award at the Exclusive Men of the Year Africa Awards and several Ghana Music Awards. In 2025, King Charles III included Daddy Lumba’s *Mpempem Do Me* in his Commonwealth Day playlist, highlighting his global influence.

Tributes have poured in from fans and fellow musicians, with many describing his death as the end of a golden era for Ghanaian music. Social media platforms have been flooded with reactions, though some unverified reports of his passing earlier in the day sparked confusion. Sources close to the family and Daddy Lumba’s radio station, DLFM, initially indicated conflicting information, but the family’s statement has since clarified the news.

Born on September 29, 1964, in Nsuta, Ashanti Region, Daddy Lumba began his musical journey at 16, leading the Juaben Senior High School choir. His ability to blend traditional highlife with contemporary sounds cemented his legacy as a pioneer of the genre. His 34th album, Nnipa Fon Na Ɛka Nsɛm Fon, was in production at the time of his passing.

The Ghanaian music industry and fans worldwide mourn the loss of a cultural icon whose work shaped the nation’s musical landscape.