The Ghanaian music industry and the Christian community are in mourning following the death of legendary gospel musician Yaw Sarpong, who passed away at the Emena Hospital in Kumasi.
The leader of the iconic Yaw Sarpong and Asomafo group had been battling ill health for several years, a struggle that frequently saw him withdraw from the public eye to focus on his recovery.
His passing was confirmed by close family sources and colleagues within the creative arts industry, including renowned sound engineer Fred Kyei Mensah. Widely regarded as a foundational pillar of modern Akan gospel music, Sarpong was celebrated for his disciplined musical style and profound lyrical content, leaving behind a legacy of timeless classics such as “Wo Haw Ne Hwan,” “Tie Obiaa,” and “Awurade Kasa.”
Yaw Sarpong’s contribution to the arts was officially recognized as recently as 2025, when he was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Telecel Ghana Music Awards. Throughout his decades-long career, he remained a mentor to countless young artists who credited his pioneering work with the Asomafo Gospel Band as a primary influence on their own spiritual and musical journeys.
The news of his death is particularly poignant for the gospel fraternity as it comes barely a month after the passing of Maame Tiwaa, a long-time collaborator and core member of the Asomafo group.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in the coming weeks as tributes continue to pour in for the fallen veteran.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
