Gospel Music Icon Yaw Sarpong Passes On

By ZED Newsroom
Legendary Ghanaian gospel musician and founder of the renowned Asomafo gospel group, Yaw Sarpong, has passed away.
The news of his death was confirmed by his manager, Nana Poku Ashis, although official details surrounding the cause of death are yet to be disclosed.
Yaw Sarpong’s passing comes barely a month after the death of Maame Tiwa, a key member and pillar of the Asomafo gospel group, a development that dealt a heavy blow to Ghana’s gospel music fraternity. The successive losses have left many musicians, clergy, and gospel music lovers in deep mourning.
For several years, Yaw Sarpong had been battling ill health, which occasionally forced him to scale back public performances as he focused on medical treatment and recovery. Despite these challenges, his influence and legacy within the gospel music space remained strong.
Widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in Ghana’s gospel music history, Yaw Sarpong rose to national prominence as the leader of Yaw Sarpong and Asomafo, a group that played a pioneering role in shaping modern Akan gospel music. The group became synonymous with spiritually rich lyrics, disciplined vocal arrangements, and a musical style deeply rooted in Christian doctrine.
Over the decades, Yaw Sarpong and Asomafo produced several timeless gospel classics, including “Wo Haw Ne Hwan,” “Tie Obiaa,” “Aduro Yesu,” and “Awurade Kasa.” These songs have remained staples in churches across Ghana and continue to inspire worshippers generations after their release.
In recognition of his immense contribution to Ghanaian music and gospel ministry, Yaw Sarpong was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards.
Tributes have since begun pouring in from musicians, church leaders, and fans, all celebrating a life dedicated to faith, music, and service. Yaw Sarpong leaves behind a legacy that will remain etched in Ghana’s gospel music history for decades to come.