Ghana Mourns Gospel Icon Yaw Sarpong

Ghana Mourns Gospel Icon Yaw Sarpong

Ghana’s gospel music community has been thrown into deep mourning following the death of renowned gospel musician and composer Yaw Sarpong, founder and leader of the celebrated Asomafo gospel group. He passed away on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, in Kumasi, at the age of 66.

Also Read, Daddy Lumba’s Final Journey: Sights, Sounds, and Emotions as Ghanaians Bid Farewell in Kumasi

The sad news was officially confirmed by his longtime manager, Nana Poku Ashis, who disclosed that the gospel legend died after receiving medical care at Emena Hospital in Kumasi. While the family has yet to release full details surrounding the cause of death, close sources indicate that Yaw Sarpong had been unwell for some time and had been quietly battling health challenges in recent years.

His passing comes at a particularly painful time for the gospel fraternity, as it follows closely on the heels of the death of Maame Tiwa, a prominent and longtime member of the Asomafo group. Her death, which occurred barely a month earlier, had already left a noticeable void within the group and the wider Christian music space in Ghana.

Yaw Sarpong was widely respected as one of the architects of modern Akan gospel music. Through Yaw Sarpong and Asomafo, he helped define a sound that blended deep Christian doctrine with rich traditional rhythms and disciplined choral arrangements. His music was not only artistic but also theological, earning him admiration from church leaders, music scholars, and gospel lovers alike.

Over several decades, he led Asomafo to produce timeless gospel classics such as “Wo Haw Ne Hwan,” “Tie Obiaa,” “Aduro Yesu,” and “Awurade Kasa.” These songs have remained relevant across generations and continue to be sung in churches, prayer meetings, and gospel concerts throughout the country.

Also Read, Daddy Lumba’s Final Journey: Sights, Sounds, and Emotions as Ghanaians Bid Farewell in Kumasi

In recognition of his immense contribution to Ghana’s music industry, Yaw Sarpong was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards, a tribute many now see as a fitting farewell to a man whose life was devoted to ministry through music.

Yaw Sarpong leaves behind a powerful legacy of faith, discipline, and musical excellence. Though his voice has fallen silent, his songs and influence will continue to inspire worship and shape gospel music in Ghana for years to come.

“Join the conversation: Share your condolences messages in the comments session below.”

"DISCLAIMER: The views, comments, opinions, contributions, and statements made by readers and contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Castino Studios."

For uploads and promotion of your music, contact Castino Studios.

Follow us on Twitter @castinostudios, Instagram as castinostudios, and Facebook as djcastino born hard, and subscribe to our YouTube channel, Castino Studios.

Email us: castinostudios@gmail.com

WhatsApp: 0247064569