The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has shared a compassionate and commiseratory message with the family and friends of the late highlife legend Charles Kwadwo Fosu, widely known as Daddy Lumba.

In a statement dated July 26, the opposition party praised the legend for his stunning and unforgettable contributions to the highlife genre in Ghana and beyond which "without a shred of doubt, have touched countless people".

This message comes after the passing of the 60-year-old singer in the morning of Saturday, July 26, at the Bank hospital in Accra following a short illness, as announced by the family through their lawyer.

"Daddy Lumba, celebrated for his distinctive voice and timeless melodies, has long stood as a symbol of cultural pride. Through his music, he masterfully told stories of love, hope, and resilience, creating a legacy that continues to resonate across generations" the opening parts of the statement read.

It continued that "His exceptional ability to connect with people from all walks of life was a testament to his extraordinary talent and dedication to his craft".

Acknowledging the impact of the highlife legend's contribution to the party's history, citing the iconic song “Nana Ye Winner” campaign song, Lumba released for the NPP during their 2008, 2012, and 2016 election campaigns, they noted that the powerful lyrics and rythm of the song was even regarded by their political opponents.

"For us in the New Patriotic Party, his melodious contribution to our campaigns in 2008. 2012. and 2016, through the famous "Nana Ye Winner track in its original and remix versions, remains deeply etched in the political history of our tradition and the country. The power and inspiration behind those songs were acknowledged even by our political opponents" parts of the statement read.

According to NPP Lumba's "melodious contribution remains deeply etched in the political history of our tradition and the country,” the statement said.

The NPP went further to express their condolence to all grieveing parties following the passing of the musician.

"We mourn this great loss together with his family, friends, and the millions of fans who found joy, comfort, and meaning in his music. In this difficult time, we stand in solidarity with all who are grieving, and we pray for strength and peace for his loved ones" the statement added.

The party stated that Daddy Lumba’s influence will endure, inspiring future generations of artists and music lovers.

“In the years to come, Daddy Lumba will be remembered not only for his immense contributions to music but also for his role in uplifting and uniting the Ghanaian spirit. His influence will endure and continue to inspire future generations of artists and music lovers.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and fans as we honour the life and legacy of this distinguished music star.

"May his soul rest in perfect peace until the last day of resurrection. Amen!" the Secretary Justin Kodua ended.

Lumba's death has sent shocking waves all across Ghana and the world at large.Several tributes have poured in for him.From people he'd trained, politicians and political parties, other musicians as well as mediapersonalities like GhOne's Serwaa Amihere who appeared to be very close to the highlife legend and his family.

Among those that have paid their respect to the musician is the president Mahama who took to his official X (formerly Twitter) platform to express his condolence to the family, highlighting Lumba's unmatched contribution to the Ghanaian music industry's growth.

“I have learnt with deep sorrow the passing of Ghanaian music legend, Charles Kwadwo Fosu, affectionately known as Daddy Lumba. Lumba’s unmatched musical genius provided the soundtrack to our lives, carrying us through various phases of life,” President Mahama wrote, capturing the collective grief of a nation.

He continued, "The beats to his memorable songs may have died down, but his enduring legacy will echo through the ages. On behalf of the Government of Ghana, I extend heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones for this irreplaceable loss.”

The news of Daddy Lumba's passing hit the world in the early hours of Saturday. Initially, when news of his passing emerged, a journalist of Hitz FM, Andy Dosty, came to deny it, noting that Daddy Lumba was alive. However, barely three hours later, Daddy Lumba (DL) FM released an official statement signed by the legend’s lawyer, confirming his demise.

A statement by the counsel for the Fosu family later confirmed that the music veteran passed on July 26, after a short illness.

He succumbed to the illness at the Bank Hospital in Accra, per reports.

The statement reads: "With profound sorrow and deep grief, the Fosu family announces the passing of Ghana's beloved musical icon, Charles Kwadwo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba, who passed away earlier today, Saturday, July 26, 2025, after a short illness."

Daddy Lumba was born 60 years ago to Mr. Johnson Kwadwo Fosuh and Madam Comfort Gyamfi, also known as Ama Saah, in Nsuta, near Mampong in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. Both of his parents were teachers, and he was the second of three siblings.

His educational journey began in Nsuta Kyebi, and he completed junior high school at Suame Methodist, Kumasi in 1979. Subsequently, he attended Adu Gyamfi Senior High School in Jamasi, but later transferred to Juaben Senior High School, where he completed his secondary education in 1984.

Daddy Lumba’s music career took off in the early 80s when he formed the Nkwanta Wesley Singers, gaining fame at the Anokye Krom Cultural Center.

During his time at Juaben Senior High School, he led the school choir and composed the song “Lumba Lumba,” dedicated to the freedom fighters in South Africa. This song’s popularity earned him the nickname “Daddy Lumba,” which later became his stage name. He also formed the Lumba Brothers band during his school days, which included his girlfriend at the time, Theresa.

After completing school, Daddy Lumba, with the help of his high school sweetheart Theresa Abebrese, traveled to Germany. There, he met Ernest Nana Acheampong, and they formed another Lumba Brothers group, recording their debut album, “Yee Ye Aka Akwantuom,” in 1986. Financial constraints delayed the album’s release until 1989, and eventually, the duo split.

Daddy Lumba then launched his solo career and released his debut solo album, “Obi Ate Meso Buo,” in 1990. The album received immense popularity and critical acclaim, featuring classics like the title track and “Theresa,” dedicated to his ex-lover. He has since released 33 albums, including notable ones like “Sika Asem,” “Aben Wo Ha,” “Wo Ho Kyere,” “Awosoo,” “Give Peace A Chance,” and “Ahenfo Kyiniye.” His latest project, “Ofon Na Edi Asem Fo,” was released in December 2022, reuniting him with longtime collaborator Kweku Mensah.

In addition to his own success, Daddy Lumba is renowned for nurturing the careers of budding artists who went on to become legends in their own right.

Some of these artists include Felix Owusu, for whom he produced the debut album “Vida” in 1992, Afia Ampofowaa, Kwabena Sunkwa, Ofori Amponsah with the “Wo Ho Kyere” album in 1999, Selina Orleans, Akua Serwaa Bonsu, Borax, Ateaa Tina, and many others.

His contributions to Ghanaian music and the support he provided to upcoming talents have solidified his status as an iconic figure in the country’s music industry.

With his passion, talent, and dedication to the craft, Daddy Lumba continues to be a role model for aspiring musicians, leaving an indelible mark on the rich musical landscape of Ghana.

Daddy Lumba's passing serves as a stark reminder of the enduring power of Highlife music as a cultural heritage.

Highlife, indigenous to Ghana, has evolved over the decades, reflecting the nation's social, political, and economic landscapes.

Artists like Daddy Lumba played a pivotal role in modernising the genre, ensuring its relevance and appeal across generations.

He was just two months away from celebrating his 61st birthday following the grand celebration he had last year, which saw the appearances of many notable personalities.

“The celebration of his 60th birthday took place on Sunday, September 29, 2024, with a grand event held at Bayview Village, near Atomic Junction in Accra. This marked his first-ever public birthday celebration, which he described as deeply emotional and spiritually significant.”

Also, his protégés including Ofori Amponsah, Kofi Nti, and Borax were present.

Media personalities such as Serwaa Amihere, Nana Ama McBrown, Okyeame Kwame, Empress Gifty, Ras Kuuku, gospel stars like Selina Boateng and Daughters of Glorious Jesus, AJ Poundz, Abena Pokuaa Ahwenee, and Kojo Kinn, as well as Ghanaian actress Nadia Buari, and others from the creative arts scene, all made an appearance at the legend's birthday party.

Before he performed his last song for the night that day, he rebuffed allegations against his wife, which suggested she had poisoned him.

He thanked one Mr. Twum and his Agric teacher for being there for him when he wasn't feeling well.

“Many accuse my wife, Akosua Serwa, of poisoning me. My wife will not do that. I had a spine surgery. It was Mama Acheampong who took me to the hospital, and Nana Twum paid all my bills. I am grateful to you all.”