Legendary Ghanaian gospel musician and founder of the renowned Asomafo gospel group, Yaw Sarpong, has passed away at the age of 66.
He died on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, in Kumasi. The news was confirmed by his manager, Nana Poku Ashis. Details surrounding the cause of death have not yet been officially disclosed.
Yaw Sarpong’s passing comes barely a month after the death of Maame Tiwa, a prominent member and key pillar of the Asomafo group, a development that had already left the gospel music fraternity in mourning.
For several years, Yaw Sarpong had been battling ill health, which occasionally forced him to step back from public performances while he focused on medical treatment and recovery.
Widely celebrated as one of the most influential figures in the history of Ghanaian gospel music, Yaw Sarpong rose to national prominence as the leader of Yaw Sarpong and Asomafo. The group played a pivotal role in shaping modern Akan gospel music, earning acclaim for its rich lyrical depth and disciplined musical style firmly rooted in Christian teachings.
Over the decades, Yaw Sarpong and Asomafo released numerous iconic gospel songs, including Wo Haw Ne Hwan, Tie Obiaa, Aduro Yesu, and Awurade Kasa, many of which remain widely sung in churches across the country.
In 2025, Yaw Sarpong was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his immense contribution to gospel music and Christian ministry in Ghana.
