The music community in Ghana is mourning the loss of Kofi Owusu Dua Anto, a well-known gospel musician who performed under the stage name KODA. He passed away on Sunday, April 21, 2024, and the news was confirmed by his friend and fellow gospel artist, Nii Okai, who spoke to MyJoyOnline.com.
Nii Okai asked for prayers for KODA’s family as they all process the news of his passing. While the cause of death was not disclosed, there are rumors that KODA had been battling an illness. KODA passed away at the age of 46, leaving behind his wife and three children. The news of his death has shocked the gospel music community in Ghana and beyond.
KODA was born and raised in Takoradi, in the Western Region of Ghana. He was a multi-talented figure in contemporary gospel music, possessing skills as a gifted singer, songwriter, music producer, and multi-instrumentalist. His influence went beyond his own performances, as he produced music for other notable artists such as the late Danny Nettey, Pastor Joe Beechem, Nii Okai, Halal Afrika, and Eugene Zuta.
KODA had a rich discography that included three studio albums, two live albums, and two instrumental/jazz albums. ‘Keteke’ was his latest vocal album, making it his sixth in total. He is best known for popular songs like ‘Nkwaa Abodo’, ‘Nsem Pii’, ‘Adooso’, ‘Hossana’, ‘Poma Dadaa’, ‘Amen’, and ‘Zion Song’. These songs have not only enriched the spiritual lives of his listeners but also significantly contributed to the vibrancy of Ghana’s gospel music scene.
KODA was deeply passionate about gospel music and dedicated to shaping the sound and direction of Ghanaian gospel music. His work earned him multiple awards and widespread acclaim within the gospel music industry. Following KODA’s passing, tributes have been pouring in from fans, fellow musicians, and public figures, reflecting the profound impact he had on many through his music and ministry. The loss of such an influential figure in gospel music is being deeply felt by those who knew him and those who were touched by his work.
However, the family of KODA is yet to release any official statement regarding his passing or any details concerning funeral arrangements. In the meantime, the gospel community and his admirers are coming together to remember and celebrate his life and contributions to music.