Nana Kwame Bediako, business mogul and former presidential hopeful, widely known as Cheddar, has called on Kuami Eugene to step up as the next torchbearer of highlife music following the passing of legendary musician Daddy Lumba.
Cheddar shared these sentiments during a condolence visit to Daddy Lumba’s residence, where he and Kuami Eugene joined a growing wave of mourners paying their respects to the departed icon. Speaking directly to the young artiste, Cheddar urged him to honour and preserve the cultural legacy that Lumba helped shape.
“The torch is yours now. Continue the legacy,” Cheddar told Kuami Eugene, a moment that has since captured the admiration of fans and sparked conversations across social media platforms.
Kuami Eugene, who has consistently acknowledged Daddy Lumba as a major influence on his artistry, appeared visibly moved by Cheddar’s encouragement. The highlife and afrobeats star, known for hits like Monica, is often seen as one of the genre’s most prominent modern torchbearers, seamlessly blending tradition with innovation.
The emotional encounter took place against the backdrop of a somber atmosphere at Lumba’s residence. Red and black fabrics fluttered quietly in the breeze as the soft melodies of the late singer’s music filled the air, timeless reminders of a voice that helped narrate Ghana’s cultural story.
Tributes have poured in from across Ghana’s political, entertainment, and religious spheres. A long list of personalities have signed the condolence book in Lumba’s honor, including Minister of Education Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum; satirist and broadcaster Kwaku Sintim-Misa (KSM); Gomoa Central MP Kwame Asare Obeng, popularly known as A Plus; and Kofi Okyere Darko (KOD), Presidential Adviser on Diaspora Affairs.
Musicians from across generations have also paid homage, including veteran highlife artiste Pat Thomas, gospel stars Philipa Baafi and Daughters of Glorious Jesus, hiplife singer Wendy Shay, artiste manager Bullet, and media personality Andy Dosty.
On Friday, August 1, 2025, former President Nana Akufo-Addo and senior figures from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) visited the family to express their condolences, underlining the national significance of Daddy Lumba’s passing.
Watch his statement below.
