The late Highlife legend, Daddy Lumba
The news of Daddy Lumba’s passing on July 26, 2025, has left fans in Ghana and across the world in despair.
Even though music enthusiasts are heartbroken, Daddy Lumba leaves behind a legacy filled with years of great music, cultural impact, and many achievements.
Daddy Lumba was not just a singer; he changed the way Highlife music sounded and helped make it popular not only in Ghana but in other parts of the world too.
Over the years, he achieved a lot, and here’s a look at some of the big moments that defined his career.
1. Over 30 albums in almost 40 years
One of Daddy Lumba’s greatest achievements was the number of albums he released.
In a music career that lasted almost 40 years, he gave fans over 30 studio albums.
Some of his well-known ones include, “Yɛyɛ Aka Akwantuo Mu” (with Nana Acheampong) in 1989, “Sika Asem” in 1991, “Aben Wo Ha” in 1998, “Poison” in 2001, among others.
2. 6-time Ghana Music Awards winner
Daddy Lumba has won a total of six Ghana Music Awards, and was crowned the winner of the coveted “Artiste of the Year” in 2000.
Daddy Lumba ruled Ghana’s music scene in the first edition of the music awards scheme with his mega hit song “Aben Wo Ha”.
It was reported that ace presenter, Tommy Annan Forson, made the song popular when he refused to play it on radio due to its sexually suggestive lyrics. His decision made people curious about the song.
3. EMY Africa Icon Award in 2018
In 2018, the EMY Africa Awards honoured Daddy Lumba with the Icon/Legend of Entertainment award.
This award was given to him for his long-lasting impact on music and showbiz in Ghana.
When he received the award, Lumba said: “Thank you to the organisers and the people of Ghana. I’ll keep giving you good music for as long as I live.”
4. Borga Highlife Lifetime Award in 2023
In October 2023, Daddy Lumba was honoured with the Borga Highlife Lifetime Achievement Award by the German Ambassador to Ghana.
This award was special because Lumba had lived and worked in Germany for many years.
He was one of the pioneers of Borga Highlife, a style of music made by Ghanaian artists living abroad.
His manager Roman Fada received the award on his behalf.
In a message on Facebook, Lumba thanked the organisers and said the award gave him the energy to keep creating music.
5. President’s Grand Medal in 2024
Daddy Lumba, was among the distinguished recipients of the National Honours and Awards 2024, in recognition of his enduring contributions to Ghana’s creative arts industry.
Established in 1960 under the leadership of Ghana’s first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, the National Honours and Awards ceremony celebrates individuals and institutions that have made outstanding contributions to Ghana’s development.
Over the years, it has evolved into a national tradition, recognising excellence, service, and innovation across all sectors, including the arts, science, education, and public service.
6. Featured on King Charles III’s playlist (2025)
Earlier in 2025, Daddy Lumba’s 2008 song “Mpempem Do Me” was featured on a playlist created by King Charles III of the UK for Commonwealth Day.
The playlist was made in collaboration with Apple Music and included songs that the King said made him feel happy and want to dance.
Lumba’s song was number 7 on the list, sitting next to songs from global musicians like Beyoncé, Bob Marley, Diana Ross, and Davido.
7. He inspired a whole generation
One of Lumba’s biggest contributions to Ghanaian music was the way he inspired younger musicians.
Big names like Ofori Amponsah, Kwabena Kwabena, Sarkodie, King Promise, and KiDi have all said that Daddy Lumba played a big part in shaping their music careers.
Kwabena Kwabena once said; “Daddy Lumba is a legend. He’s a great inspirer, a friend, a big brother, and a godfather.”
Watch the mood at Daddy Lumba’s residence after news of his shocking demise
AK/VPO
