The one-week observance of music legend Daddy Lumba has commenced at Independence Square in Accra.
The ceremony officially began at around 10:15 a.m., with Prophet Amoako Atta of Parliament Chapel leading prayers for a smooth and successful programme.
By the time of reporting, Lumba’s first wife, Akosua Serwaa, had arrived at the venue and was welcomed with a traditional song of commiseration. His second wife, Odo Broni, arrived shortly afterward.
Although attendance at the time was modest compared to the Vigil Night, it was still early in the day.
Daddy Lumba passed away at the Bank Hospital in Accra at dawn on Saturday, July 26, at the age of 60.
Born on September 29, 1964, at Nsuta near Mampong in the Ashanti Region, Daddy Lumba began his music journey at the age of 16. In 1983, he became the leader of the Juaben Secondary School choir.
After secondary school, he formed the Lumba Brothers group with his friends Yaw and Kwabena, alongside his girlfriend, Theresa Abebrese. With Theresa’s support, he traveled to Germany in search of better opportunities, where he met another highlife great, Ernest Nana Acheampong.
Nana Acheampong, who was already rooted in highlife, introduced Lumba to the genre since his background had been mainly gospel music. Together, they formed the Lumba Brothers and gained widespread fame, starting with their hit Yɛɛyɛ Aka Akwantuo Mu.
Though the group later split, Daddy Lumba went on to build a remarkable solo career. He became one of Ghana’s most celebrated musicians, leaving behind timeless classics and an enduring legacy that continues to shape the country’s music scene.