Renowned Ghanaian Highlife legend, Charles Kojo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba has reportedly passed away. The news, initially spotted by BigFamily News, was confirmed in a statement released by the Fosu family.
According to the family’s announcement, Daddy Lumba died in the early hours of today, Saturday, July 26, 2025, following a short illness.
“With profound sorrow and deep grief, the Fosu family announces the passing away 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,” the statement read.
The Fosu family has requested privacy during this difficult time as they mourn their loss. Details regarding the funeral arrangements are expected to be shared in the coming days.
More soon……….
About Daddy Lumba
Charles Kojo Fosu, affectionately known as Daddy Lumba, was born on September 29, 1964, in Nsuta, Ashanti Region, Ghana, to Comfort Gyamfi (Ama Saah) and Kwadwo Fosu. Both of his parents were teachers; his father passed away when Lumba was a child, and his mother, a profound influence on his life and career, died in 2001. Many of his songs, including “Anidasoɔ Wɔhɔ Ma Obiara” and “Ohia Asɛm,” were heartfelt tributes to her.
Early Career and the Lumba Brothers
Daddy Lumba’s musical journey began at the age of 16. He led the Juaben Senior High School choir from 1983 to 1984 and, while there, formed his first group, the Lumba Brothers, with friends Yaw, Kwabena, and his then-girlfriend, Theresa Abebrese. After completing school in 1985, he traveled to Germany with Theresa to pursue better opportunities.
In Germany, he met Ernest Nana Acheampong, who introduced him to highlife music. They formed a new group, also called Lumba Brothers. Despite planning to release an album in 1986, financial constraints delayed their debut, “Yɛɛyɛ Aka Akwantuo Mu,” until 1989. The album’s production was made possible by the support of Lumba’s first wife, Akosua Serwaa.
A Prolific Career and Enduring Legacy
Throughout his illustrious career, Daddy Lumba released a remarkable 33 albums, with critically acclaimed works such as Aben Wɔha, Awosuɔ, and Sika Asɛm. He was reportedly preparing for his 34th album, Nnipa Fon Na Ɛka Nsɛm Fon, at the time of his passing. He consistently released hit albums, solidifying his status as one of Ghana’s most beloved highlife singers.
Beyond his own success, Daddy Lumba was a pivotal figure in nurturing new talent. He launched the career of future love song master Ofori Amponsah through their blockbuster 1999 collaboration, Woho Kyere, which produced five hits. In total, he is credited with springing the careers of 13 different Ghanaian musicians. He also collaborated with other notable artists, including Felix Owusu, Pat Thomas, and Ateaa Tina.
His solo career, while immensely successful, was not without controversy. He was known for his diverse musical range, oscillating between gospel and provocative lyrics and music videos. He also faced accusations of skin bleaching, which he denied.
Awards Won By Daddy Lumba
Daddy Lumba was a true innovator, owning his own studio and equipment for mastering, duplication, and printing, exclusively for his works. His music evolved with changing tastes, establishing him as a contemporary highlife artist who appealed to all generations. He garnered numerous accolades, including multiple Ghana Music Awards, where he won Artist of the Year, Best Album, and Most Popular Song of the Year in 1999.
In 2003, he was recognized for Contemporary Highlife Artist, Song, and Album. In 2018, he received an “Icon/Legend of Entertainment” award at the Exclusive Men of the Year Africa Awards (EMY Award). Notably, in 2025, King Charles III listed Daddy Lumba’s “Mpempem Do Me” as one of his favorite tunes, featuring it on his “the kings music room” playlist on Apple Music.
In recent years, he continued to release new music, with singles like “Ofon Na Ɛdi Asɛm Fo” (2022) and “Nya Abotare Na Twen Awurade” (2023). In September 2022, he expanded his influence by opening DLFM (106.9 MHz), a Twi-language radio station in Accra.
Personal Life and Untimely Demise
Daddy Lumba was married twice. He had four children with his first wife, Maame Akosua Serwaa, and three children with his second wife, Priscilla Ofori Fosuh, affectionately known as Maame Broni.
Tragically, Charles Kojo Fosu passed away on the early morning of July 26, 2025, at the age of 60, at The Bank Hospital in Cantonments, Accra, following an undisclosed brief illness. His death came as a shock, especially as he had been working on a collaborative album with King Promise in the two months prior to his passing.
Daddy Lumba’s passing has prompted an outpouring of condolences from dignitaries and media personalities across Ghana. Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia described him as a “pillar in Ghana’s highlife genre,” acknowledging his role in nurturing many great talents. President John Dramani Mahama extended heartfelt condolences on behalf of the Government of Ghana, recognizing the “irreplaceable loss.”
Daddy Lumba’s immense contributions to Ghanaian music, his ability to bridge generations through his sound, and his dedication to uplifting other artists will forever be remembered. He leaves behind an indelible legacy as a true highlife icon.
