The passing of legendary gospel minister Ron Kenoly sent shockwaves through the global Christian community, marking the end of an era for a contemporary praise and worship icon.
The celebrated singer and worship leader died at the age of 81. News of his death was announced by his longtime music director in a social media post, sparking an outpouring of tributes from pastors, musicians, and worshippers across the world.
Best known for his powerful live worship recordings, Kenoly was a defining voice in gospel music throughout the 1990s and 2000s.
His timeless songs, ‘Ancient of Days’, ‘Jesus Is Alive’, ‘Lift Him Up’, among many others, became staples in churches across continents.
But how did Kenoly rise from performing secular music in Kansas to becoming a global gospel icon?
In an exclusive conversation with GhanaWeb journalist Isaac Dadzie, Kenoly’s manager, Kwame Agyemang Boakye-Danquah, popularly known as Toziah KBD, reflected on the life, faith, and legacy of the gospel legend.
Gospel legend, Ron Kenoly dies at 81
A surprise meeting that started everything
Their journey together began with an unexpected encounter in Florida in 2023. Both men were recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom under the Biden administration, an honour that brought them into the same space.
“It was an awesome encounter. I saw his name on the list, but I wasn’t quite sure he would be there. During one of the break-out sessions, I approached him. Ron loved interacting with people.”
According to Kwame, Kenoly immediately struck up a conversation.
He said, “Congratulations. Where are you from?’ I told him I’m from Ghana. That’s when he told me he actually had roots in Ghana. So, I asked him, ‘Do you know about the Year of Return?”
Kwame, who played an instrumental role in launching Ghana’s ‘Year of Return’ initiative in the United States in 2019, said Kenoly’s reaction was instant.
“He was so enthused; he was so happy. He said, ‘Kwame, I want to go to Ghana.’ And I told him, ‘Let’s go. You’re going with me.’”
From friendship to divine business
What began as a personal connection evolved into a professional partnership. Kwame eventually became the first and only official manager Ron Kenoly ever had.
“He did his due diligence and one day he said, ‘You are the type of guy I need. I love your brain. I’ve never had a manager, but I want you to be my manager.’” he said.
For Kwame, the invitation felt God-sent.
“I grew up in a Christian family and attended Mfantsipim. I was exposed to Ron Kenoly’s music early on. So to meet him and then be asked to manage him was overwhelming. I accepted within a minute. It was an honour,” he recalled.
A global Impact, felt even in Ghana
To work closely with Ron Kenoly, Kwame said, was to witness firsthand the far-reaching impact of his ministry, even in the most unexpected places.
“There’s not a single Sunday anywhere in the world where Ron Kenoly’s music isn’t being played,” he noted.
During one of Kenoly’s visits to Ghana, the extent of his influence was clear.
“When we visited the Ga Mantse, he told us he grew up listening to Ron Kenoly’s music. He was so moved that he even proposed an annual festival in Ron’s honour,” he disclosed.
But what made Ron Kenoly’s music resonate so deeply with millions worldwide?
“His songs became anthems that united people worldwide. He didn’t just see himself as a worship leader; he wanted to transform lives, to see people healed,” Kwame explained.
Kwame himself witnessed Ron’s passion personally.
“Personally, Ron never saw me without praying for me,” Kwame recalled. “When we came to Ghana and were heading for an interview with Kafui Dey, he pulled me aside to pray before we went on air.”
Kwame with Don Moen and Ron Kenoly
A Fante heritage
Kenoly had a deep bond with Ghana. It was more than just admiration; it was ancestral.
In a 2025 interview with veteran broadcaster Kafui Dey during his visit to Ghana, Kenoly spoke openly about his heritage.
“Based on my personal discussions and research, I believe I am a Fante,” he said.
Kwame corroborated the story, explaining that Kenoly’s grandmother often spoke about their roots. “She told him they were from the coastal areas of Ghana; she specifically mentioned Elmina,” he shared.
That shared heritage, Kwame said, was what strengthened their bond.
“When I introduced myself as Ghanaian, he said, ‘You are the guy I’ve been looking for,’” Kwame recalled.
Plans to start a legacy in Africa
Like many diasporans who reconnect with Ghana, Ron Kenoly had plans to establish permanent roots. He intended not only to build a home but also to set up a world-class music school, starting in Ghana and expanding across Africa.
“When we came to Ghana, we organised a music training class for upcoming musicians. We had planned to create a music school across Africa.
“When he was trying to get a home, I quickly got an estate developer to work on getting a place for him and a citizenship. I was told that in order for him to get citizenship. He had to be in Ghana.
Sadly, declining health cut those dreams short.
“He was already battling health issues when we came to Ghana,” Kwame revealed. “We were almost there, working on housing, citizenship, everything. But his condition worsened.”
‘I am a Fante’ – Late Ron Kenoly asserts in old video
More than music
Beyond worship, Ron Kenoly was known for his warmth and humour.
“He loved to laugh, to crack jokes. He was very accessible. When we came to Ghana, he told me, ‘Kwame, I’m home. I want to know my people.’” Kwame said.
Kwame shared how Kenoly embraced Ghanaian culture wholeheartedly, especially the food.
“At Fiesta Royale Hotel, he enjoyed attiéké, jollof rice, banku, fufu; everything. He was down for anything.”
With a laugh, Kwame added, “He told me he liked Ghana more than Nigeria.”
A legacy that endures
Ron Kenoly’s legacy is one of faith, perseverance, and global impact.
“When you sing in a way that touches the inner core of people, your music becomes their language. People in turmoil find peace in it. That’s what Ron did,” Kwame reflected.
His music, his ministry, and his spirit will continue to live on, echoing in churches, homes, and hearts around the world.
Ron Kenoly may be gone, but his worship remains eternal.
“People will remember him for his versatility, his faith in God, how he has shaped so many lives and the impact he has made on churches worldwide,” Kwame shared.
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