In a series of emotional interactions with fans on Monday with the Ghana News Agency, many described the late musician as a “timeless voice” and “cultural treasure,” whose music spoke to the heart of Ghanaian identity.
From love ballads to spiritual and motivational songs, Daddy Lumba’s work remains a powerful soundtrack to life for many.
Martin Kwashie Rooney, a Disc Jockey and Entertainment show host at the Keta-based Sandcity Radio, described Daddy Lumba’s works as timeless and connecting with all ages.
He said: “Daddy Lumba didn’t just make music, he made memories. He was rooted in highlife; his lyrics were so relatable and fresh that even the younger generation connects instantly when his songs play. T
here’s an unexplainable aura that fills the space whenever you drop his music, either at the club or on the radio.”
Etornam “Kooffi Chilli”, a showbiz critic and presenter, described Lumba’s music as “The textbook of Ghanaian emotions.
“His sound was evergreen. He captured everyday struggles, romance, and social commentary with ease in his music. His passing is a shock, but we will keep celebrating his greatness,” Kooffi Chilli said.
Lumba’s career, which spans more than three decades, includes over 30 albums, with hit songs such as ‘Theresa,’ ‘Aben Wo Aha,’ ‘Yentie Obiaa,’ and ‘Ofon Na Edi Asɛm Fo.’
His lyrical brilliance, vocal mastery, and consistency earned him numerous awards and the admiration of fans across Africa and beyond.
Casual discussion among residents across the area has also been flooded with tributes, photos, and clips of Lumba’s past performances. Many artists and fans alike have described him as the “blueprint of Ghanaian highlife.”
Vivian, a trader at Srogboe, who fondly recalls how Daddy Lumba’s music was a hit during her youthful days, shared her memories.
“Even though his songs were in Akan, a language some of us struggle to fully understand, his music still gave us every reason to dance. There was always a special excitement whenever his songs played in the club in those days.
“The rhythm, emotion, and energy transcended the language barrier. It’s hard to believe he’s gone, but his voice will never fade.”
Born in 1964, Daddy Lumba’s rise to fame began in the 1980s when he formed the Lumba Brothers Band with his friend Nana Acheampong. His solo career, however, boosted him to national stardom, earning him the title “the maestro of highlife.”
As communities across Ghana, including Anloga and Keta, continue to mourn, many are calling for a national tribute and a musical memorial to honour his contribution to Ghana’s creative industry.
Callers into radio programmes also expressed similar sentiments, sharing memories of how his music shaped their lives and describing him as an irreplaceable icon in Ghana’s music history.
Throughout the weekend into Monday, drinking spots, pubs, provision shops, and even local radio stations across the area were heard playing songs of Daddy Lumba in tribute to his memory. The atmosphere reflected a deep sense of mourning, as his timeless hits echoed through the streets and in the cars.
GNA
