Ghana will mark the one-week observation of highlife icon Charles Kwadwo Fosu—widely known by his stage name Daddy Lumba—on August 30, 2025, in Accra, according to a statement released by his family via DL FM, the late artist’s radio station.
The singer, whose career spanned nearly four decades and shaped the trajectory of Ghanaian popular music, died on July 26 at the Bank Hospital in Accra following a short illness. He was 60.
In the days following his passing, tributes poured in from across Ghana’s political, cultural and entertainment spheres. Both current and former presidents issued statements recognizing Lumba’s contributions to national identity and the arts. On August 2, the Creative Arts Agency, in partnership with the Fosu family, held a candlelight vigil at Independence Square in Accra. The four-hour memorial drew thousands and was mirrored by tribute events in the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, and across other parts of Ghana.
A prolific recording artist, Daddy Lumba released more than 33 albums over his storied career, with hits such as Aben Wo Ha, Ohia Asɛm, Theresa, and Biribi Gyegye Wo. He is widely credited with modernizing the highlife genre while maintaining its cultural roots, earning him a devoted fan base and multiple honors, including the Legend of Entertainment Award (EMY Africa) in 2018 and a Presidential Grand Medal awarded earlier this year.
The one-week observance on August 30 is expected to draw key figures from Ghana’s music industry, as well as fans and dignitaries. The family noted that the main funeral ceremony will take place in Kumasi, with details to be announced in the coming weeks.
