Parliament Pays Glowing Tribute to Daddy Lumba for His Musical Legacy

MPs Pay Tribute to Daddy Lumba in Parliament

Ghana’s Parliament on Monday paid a glowing tribute to Charles Kwadwo Fosu, popularly known as Daddy Lumba, celebrating the legendary highlife musician’s decades-long influence on the nation’s music scene and cultural identity.

The tribute, led by the Member of Parliament for Nsuta-Kwamang-Beposo, took place during a special sitting dedicated to recognizing the contributions of Ghanaian creatives and cultural icons. MPs across the political divide joined voices to salute Daddy Lumba’s extraordinary legacy, praising his artistry, innovation, and unwavering dedication to highlife music.

“Daddy Lumba is not just a musician. He is a cultural institution whose voice has soundtracked the lives of Ghanaians across generations,” said the MP who moved the motion. “From love ballads to social commentary, his music has reflected the soul of the nation.”

A Musical Icon Honored

Daddy Lumba, who began his solo career in the late 1980s after a brief partnership with Nana Acheampong, has released over 30 albums—many of which have become instant classics. His songs, such as Theresa, Aben Wo Ha, Yentie Obiaa, and Playboy, are known not only for their lyrical depth and vocal prowess but also for their ability to speak to everyday Ghanaian experiences.

Several MPs recounted personal stories of how Daddy Lumba’s music impacted their youth, families, and constituencies. Others lauded his musical versatility and entrepreneurial spirit, which has inspired a new generation of artists.

Beyond Entertainment: A Cultural Pillar

The tribute session also emphasized Daddy Lumba’s role in preserving and promoting Ghana’s cultural heritage. Despite the rise of contemporary genres, Lumba has remained faithful to the highlife tradition—an act many MPs described as patriotic and visionary.

“Lumba has stood the test of time. In a world of fleeting fame, his name continues to rise because it is built on originality, hard work, and talent,” said another MP from the Volta Region.

Calls were made for the government to consider formally honoring Daddy Lumba with a national award, as well as supporting efforts to document his work through museums, archives, or a state-funded documentary.

National Recognition in Sight?

This parliamentary tribute has reignited public calls for the icon to be awarded Ghana’s highest civilian honors, alongside efforts to induct him into national cultural institutions such as the National Theatre’s Hall of Fame.

Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin, welcomed the sentiments expressed and encouraged continued recognition of artists and creatives who “help shape the soul of the nation.” He added that Ghana’s development must be rooted not only in economics but also in cultural pride and artistic excellence.

As the session concluded, one thing was clear: Daddy Lumba is not only a highlife icon—he is a national treasure, whose music continues to bridge generations, soothe hearts, and tell the authentic story of Ghana.