Gospel Music Pioneer Yaw Sarpong Passes On

Legendary Ghanaian gospel musician Yaw Sarpong has been dead after passing away at the Emena Hospital in Kumasi, where he had been receiving medical treatment.

The news was confirmed by close family sources and members of the creative community, including veteran sound engineer Fred Kyei Mensah, popularly known as Fredyma, who announced the death in a Facebook post on Tuesday, January 20, 2026.

Yaw Sarpong was widely regarded as one of the pioneers of contemporary gospel music in Ghana. As leader of the renowned Asomafo Gospel Band, he helped shape the sound, structure and spiritual depth of gospel music for decades, earning him deep respect within the Christian community and the wider music industry.

Through Yaw Sarpong and Asomafo, gospel music took on a distinctive identity marked by rich harmonies, disciplined arrangements and lyrics firmly rooted in Christian teachings. Many younger gospel artistes have cited him as a major influence, crediting his leadership and musical direction for inspiring their own ministries.

The group produced several timeless classics, including Wo Haw Ne Hwan, Tie Obiaa, Aduro Yesu and Awurade Kasa. These songs remain staples in churches and Christian gatherings across the country, underscoring the enduring relevance of his work.

His death comes barely a month after the passing of Maame Tiwa, a key member of the Asomafo group, a loss that has already left the gospel fraternity in mourning. The close succession of deaths has deepened the sense of grief within the industry.

In recent years, the celebrated musician had been battling prolonged health challenges. These difficulties led him to reduce public appearances and step away periodically from performances as he focused on medical care and recovery.

Despite these challenges, his contributions did not go unnoticed. In recognition of his immense impact on Ghanaian music, Yaw Sarpong was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards, cementing his legacy as one of the genre’s most influential trailblazers.

Tributes have since poured in from musicians, church leaders and fans. Fred Kyei Mensah wrote, “Rest well Yaw Sarpong. You did your best for the Gospel Industry.”