Ghanaian highlife legend Dada Kwaku Duah, widely known as Dada KD, has reportedly passed away at the age of 44.
The news of his passing was reportedly confirmed by family sources through Asaase Radio on Friday, May 16, 2025.
While the cause of death remains undisclosed, fans and industry colleagues have begun paying tribute to the celebrated musician whose influence stretched across decades.
Dada KD, born on February 14, 1981, in Kumasi, began his musical journey at a young age. By the time he was 15, he was already playing instruments in church. After high school, he faced rejection from several local bands due to his age, but his determination paid off when Michael Osei Agyemang helped him record his debut album Honey Love at GEE MAN’s studio. That moment marked the beginning of a prolific career that would see him release hits like Adi Nye Wop, Somgye, Ebeboawo, Obiara Se Eye, and the beloved Odo Mu Anigye.
In 1998, Dada KD relocated to Germany to pursue broader musical opportunities. Though he was often categorized as a highlife musician, he personally described his style as rhythm and blues (R&B) with a strong emphasis on love and emotional storytelling. He cited artists like Michael Bolton and Nana Adumako Nyamekye as inspirations and worked with several notable bands including Relatives (Germany), Kojo Antwi’s Band, Tropical Vibes, and Amakye Dede’s Band.
Dada KD earned multiple accolades throughout his career, including the Best Male Vocal Artist award at the 2004 Ghana Music Awards UK. His smooth, heartfelt vocals and deep lyrical content solidified his place in Ghanaian music history.
Beyond music, Dada KD was vocal about the challenges musicians face in Ghana, especially concerning inadequate royalties and industry support. He once described Ghanaian musicians as “the most miserable in the world,” shedding light on the need for reforms in the creative arts sector. In his personal life, he had two children with Cecilia Yaa Sarfoa, a Ghanaian based in Germany. He often stated his plan to marry at age 65, insisting that true commitment requires full readiness.
Dada KD’s death is a great loss to Ghana and to music lovers everywhere.