Current:Home > ScamsRapper Ka Dead at 52 -InvestTomorrow
Rapper Ka Dead at 52
View
Date:2025-04-13 02:28:37
The music world is in mourning.
Rapper Ka died in New York City Oct. 12, his family confirmed in a statement to social media Oct. 14. He was 52.
"We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Kaseem Ryan (1972-2024), the rapper and producer known as Ka," his family wrote on Instagram. "Born and raised in Brownsville, Brooklyn, Ka lived a life of service-to his city, to his community, and to his music."
According to the post, Ka was a 20-year veteran of the New York City Fire Department and "put his life on the line to protect his fellow citizens."
While also maintaining his music career, Ka the statement also detailed his career as a firefighter, sharing that he rose "to the rank of FDNY captain and was a first responder on September 11, 2001 during the attacks on the World Trade Center."
"He leaves an extraordinary legacy as a recording artist," they continued, "including eleven remarkable self-released solo albums."
His family asked for privacy, noting they were grieving "this incalculable loss." His cause of death has not been shared.
Fans of the "Borrowed Time" rapper shared in the comments how devastated they were to hear about the news.
"My absolute favorite artist has passed away," one fan wrote. "Rest in peace, king."
Another added, "I CAN'T BELIEVE THIS. WHAT?!?! NO!!! MY CONDOLENCES TO HIS FAMILY!!! I GOTTA TAKE A MOMENT TO PROCESS AN ELITE LYRICIST, HUMBLE AND APPRECIATIVE HUMAN BEING."
One fan said that Ka was "one of the best to ever do it," adding that they were "grateful I got to tell him in person."
"Man this dude was a soldier," a user lamented, "who lived many lifetimes in his spirit and battled til the end so sad! LOVE TO THE FAMIly and fans."
Ka had released his most recent album, The Thief Next to Jesus, in August of his year. He had gotten his start in music as a founding member of the group Natural Elements in 1993 alongside Charlemagne, Howie Smalls, Dante Pachino, The InTIMidator and G-Blass. In 1995, he also formed the duo Nightbreed with late rapper Kev.
Ka is survived by his wife, mother and sister.
For the latest breaking news updates, click here to download the E! News AppveryGood! (789)
Related
- IOC's decision to separate speed climbing from other disciplines paying off
- Ali Krieger Shares “Happy Place” Photo With Her and Ashlyn Harris’ Kids Amid Divorce
- Michigan AG dismisses case against 'fake elector' in cooperation deal
- Jordan will continue to bleed votes with every ballot, says Rep. Ken Buck — The Takeout
- Meta donates $1 million to Trump’s inauguration fund
- Russian foreign minister thanks North Korea for 'unwavering' support in Ukraine war
- After rainy season that wasn’t, parched Mexico City starts restricting water
- 3 endangered sawfish born at SeaWorld – the first successful captive birth of the species in the U.S.
- Small twin
- Armed robbers target Tigers' Dominican complex in latest robbery of MLB facility in country
Ranking
- Working Well: When holidays present rude customers, taking breaks and the high road preserve peace
- Powerball winning numbers from Oct. 18 drawing: Jackpot at $70 million
- After rainy season that wasn’t, parched Mexico City starts restricting water
- Republicans are facing death threats as the election for speaker gets mired in personal feuds
- Illinois governor calls for resignation of sheriff whose deputy fatally shot Black woman in her home
- Don't call Lions' Jared Goff a game manager. Call him one of NFL's best QBs.
- Mortgage rates climb to 8% for first time since 2000
- Kate Spade Flash Deal: Get This $330 Glitter Satchel for Just $92
Recommendation
Residents worried after ceiling cracks appear following reroofing works at Jalan Tenaga HDB blocks
Israeli child with autism found dead with her grandmother
Michigan AG dismisses case against 'fake elector' in cooperation deal
Gaza under Israeli siege: Bread lines, yellow water and nonstop explosions
Buckingham Palace staff under investigation for 'bar brawl'
Woman whose body was found in a car’s trunk in US had left South Korea to start anew, detective says
Ukraine’s parliament advances bill seen as targeting Orthodox church with historic ties to Moscow
Michigan football coach Jim Harbaugh responds to NCAA's investigation into sign stealing