Jon Germain On Daddy Lumba: “A Century From Now, We’ll Still Be Trying To Understand His Songs”

In a recent interview with Dek360, seasoned media personality Jon Germain hailed Daddy Lumba as the greatest Ghanaian artiste, emphasizing his extraordinary talent and the enduring impact of his music. Germain stated,

“He did songs that in the next 100 years we will still be trying to understand,” highlighting the profound and timeless nature of Lumba’s work. He noted that there are “too many words to describe” the late musician, underscoring Lumba’s immense influence on Ghanaian music and culture.

According to Germain, Daddy Lumba’s body of work stands unmatched in Ghana’s music history.

“Lumba is undoubtedly the Greatest musician. The kind of songs he’s written, the melodies, the lyrical depth, the emotional connection — no one comes close,” he stated.

He went on to emphasize the enduring quality of Lumba’s music, asserting that his songs will continue to inspire everyone. Jon Germain said, Lumba’s music is timeless and they are not just about hits; but about the ‘songs that stay with you forever’. Even 100 years from now, people will still be dancing to and reflecting on his work.

Germain also highlighted Lumba’s influence on generations of artistes, noting that many contemporary Ghanaian musicians owe much of their style and inspiration to the highlife icon. “Lumba laid the foundation for what we now call modern Ghanaian music. Whether it’s highlife, hiplife, or afrobeats, you can hear traces of his genius everywhere.”

Daddy Lumba, born Charles Kwadwo Fosu, had an illustrious career spanning over three decades with numerous hit albums and classic songs. His ability to evolve with the times while staying true to his roots has earned him a permanent place in the hearts of Ghanaians.

Jon Germain’s comments echo a growing sentiment among music lovers and industry insiders who believe that Daddy Lumba’s contribution to Ghanaian music is not only historic but eternal.

Jon Germain’s praise aligns with sentiments from other prominent figures. For instance, Kofi Okyere-Darko, director of diaspora affairs at the office of the president, also described Daddy Lumba as “the greatest from Ghana in the last 100 years.”

The World Gathers To Celebrate Daddy Lumba’s Life On August 2

Charles Kwadwo Fosu, known professionally as Daddy Lumba, was a Ghanaian highlife legend whose career spanned nearly four decades. Born on September 29, 1964, in Nsuta, Ashanti Region, he released over 30 albums, with hits like “Yɛɛyɛ Aka Akwantuo Mu” (1989), “Sika Asem” (1991), “Aben Wo Ha” (1998), and “Poison” (2001). His music, rooted in Ghanaian culture, explored themes of love, struggle, resilience, and social issues, earning him widespread acclaim and a lasting legacy.

Lumba’s influence extended beyond music, inspiring artists like Sarkodie, Kwabena Kwabena, and King Promise. His contributions to highlife, including pioneering the “Borga Highlife” subgenre during his time in Germany, redefined the genre and increased its global appeal.

He won six Ghana Music Awards, including Artiste of the Year in 2000, and received the Borga Highlife Lifetime Achievement Award in 2023 and the National Honours and Awards in 2024.

Daddy Lumba passed away on July 26, 2025, at The Bank Hospital in Accra after a short illness, at the age of 60.