Ghana’s highlife fraternity is reeling from the sudden passing of celebrated highlife musician Dada KD, who died on Friday, May 16, 2025.

The news of death which broke late Friday evening, has triggered an outpouring of grief nationwide, with fans, industry colleagues, and cultural commentators reflecting on the legacy of an artist whose music touched generations.

While the cause of death remains unknown, tributes have continued to flood social media, with friends and fans mourning the loss of one of Ghana’s most iconic voices.

Among those most deeply affected is fellow highlife artist and longtime friend KK Fosu, who described Dada KD not only as a colleague but as a personal hero.

In an emotional tribute to the Ghana News Agency (GNA), KK Fosu spoke of the shock he experienced upon learning of his friend’s passing.

“You know, it has been almost a year now since I had that catastrophic accident on the Apam road, and hearing about the death of a very close friend like Dada KD has made me very sad,” he said.

“We often talked, and I didn’t know about any major illness. In fact, he was preparing to play a show in London, same as me, for the Amakye Dede show next month.”

KK Fosu’s reflections paint a picture of a close-knit relationship between two artists who shared not just a genre, but a deep personal bond.

“He was my hero and we had lots in common,” he added, visibly shaken. “His death has left a huge gap in my life and in the industry as a whole.”

Dada KD, born with a unique voice and a flair for storytelling, carved out an enduring space in Ghana’s music history.

Over the span of a decades-long career, he released nine albums, with classics like Somugye, Ebeboawo, Obiara Se Aye, and Odo Mu Anigyebi earning him a devoted following.

His work combined poignant lyrics with melodious instrumentation, capturing the emotional and cultural essence of Ghanaian life.

His talent was not just recognized locally. Dada KD performed across continents, and in 2004, his excellence was formally acknowledged when he won the Best Male Vocalist award at the Ghana Music Awards UK.

Beyond the accolades, it was his consistency and commitment to the highlife genre that endeared him to fans at home and abroad.

His death comes as a heavy blow not only to his family and friends but to the broader Ghanaian music industry, which continues to grapple with the loss of foundational talents.

For KK Fosu and others, the focus now shifts to ensuring that Dada KD is remembered not just with words but with action—a befitting farewell that honours his contributions to culture, art, and national identity.

Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced, but KK Fosu has expressed hope that music lovers and the entertainment industry will come together to celebrate the life of a man whose songs, voice, and spirit left an indelible mark on Ghanaian highlife.