Condolences pour in for renowned Ghanaian drummer, composer Paa Kow

The news was announced by American jazz trumpeter Brad Goode, a long-time collaborator, in a Facebook post. Goode described Paa Kow as “our beloved friend, master drummer, bandleader and spiritual force” and said he was “shocked and devastated” by the loss. He added that Paa Kow’s music, centred on messages of peace and brotherhood, had inspired him and many others over nearly two decades.

Goode and Paa Kow performed together extensively in Ghana and the United States, including as part of Paa Kow’s most recent ensemble. Their collaborations also included Goode’s album The Unknown, reflecting a close professional and artistic relationship.

“It’s hard to find words, some of the most beautiful and magical moments in my journey as a musician were shared with you [Paa Kow], both with me in your band and you in mine,” Zimbabwean musician Zivanai Masango wrote on social media. “What a talent, what a visionary. You’ve left us too soon, brother.”

US band Eufórquestra wrote: “After a weekend of so much musical joy, we are devastated to learn of the untimely passing of our friend Paa Kow. We first met Paa Kow almost twenty years ago when we were studying a lot of West African music as a group. He was so supportive and encouraging whenever we crossed paths and has remained a source of endless creativity and inspiration. A true master of his craft and a beautiful human being. Rest well, Paa Kow. You touched so many with your gifts and your talents will remain a blessing to those who hear the music you left for us.”

Born in Enyan Denkyira, a village near Cape Coast in Ghana’s Central Region, Paa Kow began performing at an early age with his family’s concert band. He later rose to national prominence as a teenager after joining the band of highlife musician Amakye Dede in Accra. His career went on to include performances with leading Ghanaian artists such as Kojo Antwi, George Darko, Nat Brew and gospel musician Yaw Sarpong.

Paa Kow built an international reputation through performances across Africa, Europe and the United States, sharing stages with both African and American musicians, including bassist Victor Wooten. He was widely recognised for blending highlife, jazz and Afro-fusion, creating a distinctive sound rooted in Ghanaian musical traditions.

Often described as one of Ghana’s most innovative drummers, Paa Kow played a custom-designed, hand-carved drum set inspired by traditional Ghanaian instruments. The unique setup became central to his performances and was closely associated with his artistic identity.

His discography includes Hand Go Hand Come (2012), Ask (2014), Cookpot (2017) and Nkwa Na Ehia (2021). Through these works and his touring Afro-Fusion Orchestra, he sought to promote Ghanaian culture internationally, using rhythm as a means of storytelling and cultural exchange.

Paa Kow was frequently praised for his technical virtuosity and his ability to convey emotion and spirituality through percussion. His contribution to contemporary African and jazz-influenced music has earned him lasting recognition both at home and abroad.