Ghana’s gospel music community has been thrown into mourning following the death of Yaw Sarpong, the revered gospel musician and founder of the iconic Asomafo gospel group.
Yaw Sarpong passed away on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, in Kumasi, marking the end of an era for Akan gospel music. The heartbreaking news was confirmed to Myjoyonline.com by his manager, Nana Poku Ashis, though official details surrounding the cause of death are yet to be released.
His passing comes at a particularly painful moment for the gospel fraternity, arriving barely a month after the death of Maame Tiwa, a central member and spiritual backbone of the Asomafo group. That loss had already sent shockwaves through the Christian music space, and Yaw Sarpong’s death has now deepened the collective grief.
For several years, the legendary musician had been battling ill health, a struggle that occasionally forced him to withdraw from public performances as he focused on treatment and recovery. Despite these challenges, his influence and legacy remained firmly intact.
Widely celebrated as one of the most influential figures in Ghana’s gospel music history, Yaw Sarpong rose to national prominence as the leader of Yaw Sarpong and Asomafo—a group that redefined Akan gospel music through rich lyrical depth, disciplined arrangements, and strong foundations in Christian doctrine.
Across decades of ministry through music, the group produced timeless gospel classics such as Wo Haw Ne Hwan, Tie Obiaa, Aduro Yesu, and Awurade Kasa. These songs continue to resonate in churches and Christian gatherings across Ghana, serving as both worship anthems and spiritual teachings.
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, a fitting tribute to a man whose work shaped generations of worship and musicianship.
As tributes continue to pour in, Ghana remembers Yaw Sarpong not only as a musician, but as a spiritual voice whose songs will echo in churches and hearts for years to come.
