Ghanaian Gospel Icon ‘KODA’ Passes Away at 45

Ghanaian gospel musician Kofi Owusu Dua Anto, widely known as KODA, has sadly passed away at the age of 45 after battling a short illness. The news was confirmed by Metro TV and has led to an outpouring of condolences and tributes from fans and fellow musicians.

KODA was a prominent figure in the Ghanaian gospel scene, known for his soulful voice, infectious enthusiasm, and the messages of hope and perseverance embedded in his music. Born on December 15, 1978, in Takoradi, he began his musical journey at a very young age. His mother enrolled him in a music class when he was just 10 years old, which helped him develop his skills on the guitar. He went to Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) where he became the mass choir director of the university.

KODA was also the music director and instrumentalist of the “Music Wing of Baptist Students Union”, “KNUST’s Simply Jazz Crew”, “God’s Instruments” and a leading member of “Da Project” which was a legendary Ghanaian contemporary gospel group then. After tertiary education, he co-wrote, mixed, mastered and produced the exceptional album, Awurade Ei for KNUST’s “God’s Instruments” at KODED studios, Takoradi, Ghana. The album received massive recognition in the country. It had great hits such as “Awurade Ei” (“Se Woma Wonsa Soa”), “Tumi” and “Onyame” Ye D’awase”.

Throughout his career, KODA worked with many gospel artists both in Ghana and internationally. He was not only a singer but also a songwriter, record producer, and multi-instrumentalist. His contributions to the gospel music scene earned him numerous accolades, including the Africa Gospel Music Awards Producer of the Year in 2014 and nominations for the Christian Community Music Awards Song with a Cause in 2013 and the Africa Gospel Music Awards Producer of the Year in 2012.

KODA released several albums, including:

• “Nyame Beye” (God will do it) in 2006
• “Waye Wie” (He’s done it) in 2008
• “My Passion – Christian Jazz”
•  “Joy – Christian Jazz” in 2008
• “Black & White” in 2013
• “Oxygen” in 2016
• “Hosanna” in 2018
• His most recent album, “Keteke,” released in January 2021, was a critical and commercial success.

The news of KODA’s passing has left a void in the hearts of his fans and the music industry. He will be remembered for his talent, passion, and the impact he made through his music.