Following the sudden demise of Ghana’s Highlife legend, Daddy Lumba, the spotlight has been thrown at the individuals, mentioned in his songs over the years.
Throughout his iconic 34-album catalog, Daddy Lumba referenced several names believed to be those of relatives, friends, and notable individuals he encountered in his life and career.
Kumasi candlelight vigil for Daddy Lumba postponed indefinitely
Below is a look at some of the people he mentioned in his music:
Yaa Tiwaa
In 1990, Daddy Lumba released one of his most touching songs, “Me Mpaebo” (My Prayer).
In the song, he mentioned Yaa Tiwaa, reportedly his sister-in-law and sister to his first wife, Akosua Serwaa.
According to reports, Yaa Tiwaa struggled with infertility, and through the song, Lumba offered a heartfelt prayer for her, drawing a comparison to Sarah from the Bible, who also battled childlessness.
Akosua Brempomaah and Faustina Fosu
In his emotional track “Makra Mo”, (Farewell), Lumba mentioned several family members, including his sisters Akosua Brempomaah and Faustina Fosu, his late mother, and his first wife.
Musicians who have paid tribute to Daddy Lumba during stage performances
The song expresses Lumba’s desire for his fans to enjoy his music while he is still alive.
He also pleaded with his siblings to care for his wife and children after his passing. In the song, he says goodbye to his fans, urging them not to weep when he is gone.
Ama Saah
The late musician often referenced his late mother, Ama Saah, throughout his musical career.
Musicians who have paid tribute to Daddy Lumba during stage performances
In songs such as “Makra Mo” and especially “Okuafo Ye Adwuma A Opon”, he dedicated heartfelt messages to her. He acknowledged her sacrifices in raising him and his sister.
According to Lumba, she lived a fulfilled life and deserved to rest peacefully.
Johnson Kwadwo Fosu
Many fans wondered whether Lumba had ever mentioned his father in his songs, as he often did his mother.
He did, in fact, mention his father, Johnson Kwadwo Fosuh, in the 1997 song “Se Emere No Beso A”.
His father, a teacher, passed away while Lumba was still a teenager.
In the song, he reflected on his father’s influence and admitted that he only came to understand his father’s lifestyle as he grew older.
Charles Opoku Kwadwo Darko
Charles Opoku Kwadwo Darko, a renowned businessman and close friend of Lumba, was mentioned in the 2008 song “Mpempem Do Me”.
In the track, which addressed criticisms and false rumours, Lumba mentioned Charles Darko by name and advised him not to be affected by the gossip being spread about him either.
Kennedy Agyapong (Kenpong)
In his song “Nea Wo Ho Beto Wo”, Lumba referenced Kennedy Agyapong, popularly known as Kenpong, a Ghanaian millionaire and businessman.
While many initially assumed the song was referring to the former MP for Assin Central, it later became clear that Lumba was talking about Kenpong, a close friend.
Their relationship was further confirmed when Kenpong was seen in tears at Lumba’s residence following his death.
Georgina Adu Ansere
Lumba also referenced Georgina Adu Ansere in the song “Se Wo Tan Me A” (If You Hate Me).
In the track, he spoke about being disliked simply because Georgina, a woman from Atwima Kokoben, liked him.
He used the song to criticize those who spread baseless rumours and expressed that their hatred would ultimately amount to nothing.
Parts of ‘Medo Wasem Bebree’
At the beginning of the song “Medo Wasem Bebree”, Lumba gave shout-outs to a dance group known as ‘The Lumba Brothers’ based in Amsterdam.
He mentioned names such as Yvonne Prempeh, Abigail, Manfred, Brother Dennis, Charles, and Kwabena, expressing gratitude for their unwavering support of his music.
Kwaku Wiredu and Osei Kwadwo
In the song “Yeeya Aka Akwantuo Mu”, Lumba acknowledged Kwaku Wiredu (nicknamed Soweto) and Osei Kwadwo (also known as Trustpee).
According to Lumba, these individuals provided shelter and support to Ghanaians living abroad. He expressed appreciation for their efforts in helping fellow citizens in the diaspora.
Charles Allen Gyimah
In his song “Ankwanoma”, Lumba mentioned Charles Allen Gyimah, the owner of Ghana Video City.
The tribute served to honour Gyimah’s immense contributions to the creative arts industry in Ghana and his support of local talent, including Lumba himself.
Meanwhile, watch as Pat Thomas shares memories of the late Daddy Lumba:
JHM/EB
