Following the death of Daddy Lumba, veteran Highlife musician, Naa Agyeman, has appealed the Ghanaian government to seize the moment and institutionalize the late legend’s legacy through the creation of a national music museum.
In an interview with Graphic Showbiz, the “Kwahu Bepo” composer expressed deep concern over the country’s chronic neglect of its musical legends. He believes that Charles Kwadwo Fosu, widely known as Daddy Lumba, deserves more than just words of praise.
“There’s no better time than now to act,” Naa Agyeman said. “Daddy Lumba is not just another artiste—he is a cultural icon, a national treasure whose music has been the soundtrack to millions of Ghanaian lives for over three decades.”
According to him, a permanent institution honouring Daddy Lumba’s career would not only preserve his contributions but also serve as an educational and cultural resource for future generations.
“We celebrate him in words and tributes, but we must do more. We must preserve his memory in a way that is concrete and enduring. A national music museum dedicated in part to his legacy would be a monumental step forward,” he noted.
He argued that such a space should not only focus on Daddy Lumba but also act as a national archive for Ghanaian music, a hub that educates, inspires, and attracts tourists.
“If you travel to other parts of the world, you’ll see museums dedicated to Elvis Presley, Bob Marley, The Beatles and more. These are places that preserve not just music but history. Ghana needs that. And there is no better face to begin this mission than Daddy Lumba,” he said.
Naa Agyeman envisions a vibrant museum filled with cultural memorabilia—handwritten lyrics, vintage costumes, rare recordings, and documentary footage chronicling the evolution of Ghanaian music.
“Imagine students walking through halls filled with rare recordings, handwritten lyrics, vintage costumes and video footage of historic performances. Imagine experiencing the evolution of Highlife through immersive storytelling. That’s not just entertainment—it’s education, culture and national pride combined.”
He lamented Ghana’s failure to establish a central institution that honours its musical heroes, warning that each unpreserved legacy diminishes the country’s cultural memory.
“It’s heartbreaking that a country with such a deep musical heritage lacks a physical space where the youth can learn about our icons. Every time we lose a legend, a piece of our history disappears. The government must act now. Let Daddy Lumba’s legacy be the catalyst for this change.”
Reflecting on his personal connection to the late star, Naa Agyeman recalled sharing the stage with Lumba during his 60th birthday celebrations, an experience he had hoped to return during his own 25th anniversary in music.
“I was privileged to share a stage with him on his 60th birthday celebration. It was an unforgettable experience, and I was looking forward to reciprocating the gesture for my own 25th anniversary in the music industry. Although circumstances didn’t allow it, I’m grateful for the legacy he’s left behind.”
Naa Agyeman closed his remarks with a call to action, encouraging Ghanaians not only to grieve but to actively work toward preserving Lumba’s enduring legacy.
“Daddy Lumba was more than a legend—he was an inspiration. His music will continue to inspire and influence future generations of musicians and fans alike. So let’s not just mourn Daddy Lumba—let’s immortalise him. Let’s build a legacy that lasts.”
