Ghana mourns gospel musician KODA

The news, widely reported by local media, was also confirmed by fellow gospel artist Nii Okai, who urged everyone to pray for the family as they cope with the loss.

KODA died of undisclosed causes, but in a video that has resurfaced after his passing, the singer discusses being prescribed the wrong medication for eight months by a doctor in 2015. His death has sparked widespread grief on social media.

“You wove a beautiful story with your music dear brother,” Nacee posted. “Your love, faith, and passion for ministry brought magic to our world. Though you’ve ascended, know that God is pleased with your journey. Our hearts ache, but we cherish the memories.”

“Ah this hurts. Things will not be the same anymore. RIP KODA,” Diana Hamilton said.

Popular music group Joyful Way Incorporated conveyed deep sorrow over KODA’s passing and emphasised the profound impact he had made on everyone in the band.

“Great men are born to grace this earth with their talent and one such gentleman was Kofi Dua Anto (KODA),” veteran producer Fred Kyei Mensah said, describing the late musician as a great talent and singer. He also noted KODA’s influence on his son, gospel newcomer Kyei Mensah.

“I remember when I had the chance to open for Diana Hamilton, I had to soundcheck my guitar,” Kyei Mensah Jr recounted. “I was overwhelmed and I didn’t know what to do. KODA got up from his seat, came onstage and helped me with the soundcheck. He made sure I was okay with everything. Legend.”

On Sunday night, performing at a concert in Accra, MOG Music led patrons to observe one minute of silence in honour of KODA’s passing.

“His songs were always about the Exalted One,” broadcaster Caleb Kudah wrote. “His passion was always about the lost and why the church must not lose focus. The intensity of his passion for the lost is only seen in some of us, when we want something from God. You didn’t have to know him personally to perceive he was not about the fame or money! All he wanted was to get it right. And that his listeners will get it right too.”

Born Kofi Owusu Dua Anto, the Takoradi-based musician was best known for songs like ‘Nkwaa Abodo’, ‘Nsem Pii’, ‘Adooso’ and ‘Hossana’. He is behind six collections, including three studio albums, two live albums and two instrumental/jazz albums. His most recent LP Keteke was released in 2021.

The founder of KODED Studios, he produced other gospel artists such as Eugene Zuta, Nii Okai, Joe Beechem and the late Danny Nettey.