Legendary Ghanaian gospel musician Yaw Sarpong has reportedly passed away, marking the end of an era in Ghana’s gospel music scene.
The death of the iconic musician was confirmed on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, by artiste manager Nana Poku Ashis. Details regarding the cause of death have not yet been made public.
Yaw Sarpong was one of the most influential figures in Ghanaian gospel music, with a career spanning nearly five decades. He released his debut album, “Adesrede,” in 1981, which marked the beginning of a journey that would leave a lasting imprint on gospel music in Ghana.
A Towering Gospel Legacy
Over the years, Yaw Sarpong composed and performed numerous gospel classics, including “Awurade Kasa,” “Tie Obiaa,” and “Wo Haw Ne Hwan,” songs that continue to inspire worshippers across generations.
He also founded the renowned Asomafo Gospel Group, a collective that played a pivotal role in shaping the sound, structure, and spiritual depth of Akan gospel music in Ghana. Through Asomafo, Yaw Sarpong nurtured talent and helped define a distinct gospel identity rooted in Ghanaian culture.
Long Battle With Illness
In October 2020, Yaw Sarpong survived a ghastly motor accident on the Accra–Kumasi highway, in which he, members of his family, and his team sustained injuries. All involved survived the crash.
However, his health challenges persisted. It later emerged that he suffered a stroke and had been ill since 2023. Images and videos of his frail condition circulated online, triggering widespread concern and emotional reactions from fans and fellow musicians.
Despite his health struggles, he was sighted briefly in April 2024, performing before a congregation — a moment that brought hope and joy to many Ghanaians. Since then, his public appearances became increasingly rare.
Loss of Maame Tiwaa
In 2025, Yaw Sarpong was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Telecel Ghana Music Awards (TGMAs) in recognition of his immense contribution to gospel music. The award was received on his behalf by Maame Tiwaa, his long-time colleague, friend, and caregiver.
Tragedy struck again in December 2025, when Maame Tiwaa passed away, sending shockwaves through the gospel music fraternity. Reports at the time indicated that Yaw Sarpong’s family had not informed him of her death, fearing it would be too devastating for him to bear.
Just weeks later, Yaw Sarpong himself also passed away.
Nationwide Tributes Pour In
News of his death has come as a huge blow to Ghanaians, with musicians, church leaders, and fans flooding social media with tributes, describing him as a spiritual father, mentor, and trailblazer whose music transformed lives and shaped worship in Ghana.
Yaw Sarpong leaves behind a powerful legacy — not only through his timeless songs, but through the countless lives he touched with his ministry, humility, and dedication to gospel music.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days.
