Gospel music icon Yaw Sarpong passes away

The veteran musician reportedly passed away on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at Emena Hospital in Kumasi, where he had been receiving medical treatment, family sources have confirmed.

Yaw Sarpong was best known as the long-time leader of the renowned Asomafoɔ Gospel Band, a group that played a defining role in shaping modern gospel music in Ghana. Through decades of ministry and music, he became a towering figure whose sound and message influenced generations of gospel artists.

Widely respected within the Christian community and the music industry, Yaw Sarpong’s compositions blended deep spiritual messages with rich Ghanaian musical elements, earning him a loyal following across churches nationwide.

Together with the Asomafoɔ Gospel Band, he produced several timeless gospel classics, including Wo Haw Ne Hwan, Tie Obiaa, Aduro Yesu, and Awurade Kasa—songs that remain staples in worship services across the country.

In recognition of his immense contribution to gospel music, Yaw Sarpong was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 Telecel Ghana Music Awards.

Tributes are pouring in from gospel musicians, church leaders, and fans as Ghana mourns the loss of one of its most influential gospel music pioneers.