On the evening of August 2, 2025, thousands of Ghanaians gathered at Independence Square in Accra to honor the late highlife legend Charles Kwadwo Fosu, known as Daddy Lumba, who passed away on July 26, 2025, after a brief illness.
The candlelight vigil, organized by the Creative Arts Agency, was a poignant celebration of the musician’s enduring legacy, with mourners dressed in black, lighting candles, and singing along to his timeless hits like Aben Wo Ha and Yooyo. The event brought together fans, musicians, and dignitaries, creating an atmosphere filled with nostalgia and reverence for a cultural icon whose music shaped generations.
[VIDEO] Ghanaians Unite in Heartfelt Tribute to Daddy Lumba at Independence Square Vigil
The vigil was marked by deeply emotional moments, particularly when Daddy Lumba’s widow, Lady Odo Broni, and their children shared heartfelt tributes. Lady Odo Broni, standing alongside her children, described her husband as “a musical genius whose songs shaped Ghana’s highlife sound,” reflecting the profound personal and cultural impact he had. The couple’s daughter, Denise, moved the crowd with her words: “Behind the spotlight was my father, a man who cared deeply. He taught us all resilience, he taught us strength.” These tributes underscored the personal loss felt by the family and the nation, as attendees reminisced about the artist’s ability to weave everyday experiences into his music.
The event featured live performances of Daddy Lumba’s greatest hits, with artists like Pat Thomas, Sarkodie, and Kwabena Kwabena gracing the stage, alongside choral performances and poetry recitals. Despite heavy winds disrupting the candlelight session, mourners adapted by using flashlights, ensuring the tribute continued uninterrupted. The Creative Arts Agency and the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA) emphasized Daddy Lumba’s role as a cultural pillar, with MUSIGA president Bessa Simons stating, “Daddy Lumba was not just an entertainer. He was a movement.” The vigil, part of a series of commemorative events, highlighted the musician’s ability to unite Ghanaians across generations and even political divides.
Beyond Accra, Daddy Lumba’s influence resonated globally, with simultaneous vigils reported in diaspora cities like London and New York, reflecting his connection to Ghanaians worldwide. His music, known for its rich use of Asante Twi and themes of love, resilience, and cultural pride, continues to dominate platforms like Apple Music Ghana, with songs like Makra Mo reaching number one. As one fan poignantly noted, “He was Ghana’s human Spotify before data bundles,” capturing the timeless bond between Daddy Lumba and his audience. The vigil served as a powerful reminder of his legacy, ensuring his melodies and messages will echo for years to come.
