Ghana’s highlife music industry has faced an era of profound loss over the past five years, with the passing of some of its most legendary figures. These musicians did not just entertain, they defined the sound, culture, and spirit of highlife, shaping the genre with rich storytelling, timeless melodies, and iconic performances. Here, we pay tribute to seven highlife legends whose deaths from 2020 to 2025 left an indelible void in Ghana’s musical heritage.
Nana Tuffour (1954–2020)
Known affectionately as “9924,” Nana Tuffour was a celebrated singer, composer, and band leader. His smooth vocals and emotive songwriting produced classics like “Abeiku” and “Abasa Komu.” Nana Tuffour passed away on June 15, 2020, at age 66 after a short illness. His influence continues to echo across generations of musicians and fans.
Kofi B (1980–2020)
Kofi Boakye Yiadom, professionally known as Kofi B, captivated Ghanaians with heartfelt hits such as “Mmobrowa,” “Bantama Kofi Boakye,” and “Koforidua Flowers.” He passed away unexpectedly on February 2, 2020, after reportedly collapsing before a performance in Cape Coast. Kofi B’s unique voice and lyrical depth cemented his place in highlife history.
Nana Kwame Ampadu (1945–2021)
A true folklore genius, Nana Ampadu was the chief architect behind the legendary African Brothers Band and a pioneering force in the evolution of both highlife and afrobeat. With a career spanning decades, Ampadu’s compositions became cultural anthems. He died on September 28, 2021, at age 76, leaving behind a monumental legacy in Ghanaian music.
A.B. Crentsil (1943–2022)
Alfred Benjamin Crentsil, popularly known as A.B. Crentsil, delivered numerous classics, including “Devil,” “Atia,” and “Papa Shamo.” Winner of the Fontomfrom Evergreen Award, Crentsil’s contribution to highlife was immense. He died at the age of 79 on July 13, 2022, after an illness, but his works remain essential to Ghana’s musical identity.
Akwaboah Snr. (1950s–2023)
Kwadwo Akwaboah, affectionately known as Akwaboah Senior, was a renowned highlife musician and master keyboardist. He played for countless bands and collaborated with both local and international stars. Akwaboah Snr passed away in May 2023, after battling glaucoma that left him blind in his later years. He is remembered for classic hits and a musical partnership with his son, Akwaboah Jnr.
Dada KD (1964–2025)
Dada KD was synonymous with soulful ballads and anthems like “Fatia Fata Nkrumah” and “Somu Gye.” His music touched countless lives, and his sudden passing on May 16, 2025, shocked the nation. Dada KD’s artistic legacy endures in the hearts of his fans and the soundtracks of many homes.
Daddy Lumba (1964–2025)
Charles Kwadwo Fosu, famously known as Daddy Lumba, was one of Ghana’s most prolific and influential highlife stars. With over 34 albums and hits such as “Biribi Gyegye Wo,” “Ahenfo Kyinye,” and “Makra Mo,” Lumba’s contributions transformed the industry and mentored rising stars. He passed away on July 26, 2025, after a brief illness, ending an era but solidifying his legend forever.
Source:NKONKONSA.com
