Ofori Amponsah has delivered a moving homage to the late music legend Charles Kwadwo Fosu, known to generations of fans as Daddy Lumba, expressing profound grief and gratitude for the man who shaped his life and career in extraordinary ways.
Visibly emotional during a condolence visit to Lumba’s home, Amponsah described their relationship as far deeper than industry collaboration. For him, Lumba was not only a mentor but a father figure who embraced him at a pivotal moment in his journey.
“I don’t have much to say. Of course, I had my biological father, but Daddy Lumba was someone who equally played the fatherly role, mentored me. I didn’t deserve this, but when he realised the gift and grace upon my life, he took me in and mentored me,” the Ghanaian artiste stated, his voice heavy with emotion.
Their bond began with Lumba recognizing Amponsah’s raw potential. That recognition led to a six-year mentorship, one that served as a foundation for both personal growth and professional resilience.
“For six years of friendship and mentorship, he walked me through life, the industry, and everything I needed to know. I remember the first time we met, he told me I had unique grace and I would be just like him. I’m even short of words.”
That mentorship bore immediate fruit. Their collaboration on the 1999 ‘Wo Ho Kyere’ album catapulted Amponsah into the spotlight, marking a turning point in his career. Lumba, widely known for nurturing young talent, became both a champion and protector of Amponsah’s artistry.
Now faced with the reality of Lumba’s demise, Ofori Amponsah finds it difficult to reconcile the loss. “Sometimes I feel his death is not true, but it’s God who gave him to us, and He has taken him too at the time He feels is right.”
For Amponsah, the loss is not only a blow to Ghanaian music but a deeply personal grief, the end of a rare and life-altering relationship that helped shape the man and musician he is today.
