
Legendary Ghanaian Highlife musician Pat Thomas lamented the passing of his buddy and fellow Highlife icon, Charles Kwadwo Fosu, often known as Daddy Lumba, in an emotional interview with Ameyaw TV. Daddy Lumba died on July 26, 2025, at The Bank Hospital in Accra following a brief illness.
Before Lumba’s demise, there was a deep bond between the two musicians and their contributions to Ghana’s Highlife music scene. Visibly moved by the sad news, Pat Thomas came to Daddy Lumba’s house to sign the book of condolence and express his condolences to the family.
He reflected on their long-standing connection, emphasizing their successful collaborations, including tracks like “Gyabi Wu A Gyabi Te Ase” and “Moye Kwa” from the album ‘Ahenfo Kyiniye’.
The ‘Sika Ye Mogya’ hitmaker called Lumba a brother and a “musical icon,” stating that their collaboration was motivated by a love of timeless music and respect for one another.
He spoke on the harmony and dedication to creating a lasting legacy rather than just making money during their collaborations in Germany, where they recorded “Ahenfo Kyiniye.”
Pat Thomas said that the loss of Lumba was especially tough for him, saying,
“It has been tough to accept this loss. We shared so many moments, and his music touched the soul of Ghana.”
He reminisced about their time together, including personal anecdotes from their recording sessions and performances, underscoring Lumba’s ability to blend cultural idioms with captivating melodies.
Daddy Lumba, One of Ghana’s Greatest Musicians, Has Died
Daddy Lumba, born on September 29, 1964, in Nsuta, Ashanti Region, was a towering figure in Ghanaian Highlife music, with a career spanning over three decades. He released over 30 albums, including classics like Sika Sem, Aben Wo Ha, and Ahenfue Kyinkye, and was celebrated for his lyrical depth and ability to address themes like love, resilience, and cultural identity.
Beyond Ghana, he influenced singers like as Kwabena Kwabena, K.K. Fosu, and Ofori Amponsah. Lumba received multiple honors for his contributions, including the 2024 National Honors and Awards and the Most Popular Song of the Year title for “Aben Wo Ha” at the 1999 Ghana Music Awards.
In closing, Pat Thomas urged Ghanaians to honor Lumba’s life by listening to his music, saying, “His voice may be silent, but his songs will live forever.”