Rapper Ka has passed away at the age of 52.
The rapper’s official Instagram page announced that he died on Saturday, Oct. 12. “We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Kaseem Ryan (1972-2024), the rapper and producer known as Ka, who died unexpectedly in New York City on October 12, at the age of 52,” the message reads.
“He leaves an extraordinary legacy as a recording artist, including eleven remarkable self-released solo albums,” the statement continues.”Ka is survived by his wife, mother and sister. We kindly ask that the privacy of Ka's family and loved ones be respected as they grieve this incalculable loss.”
Ka was a former member of the popular underground rap group Natural Elements in the 1990s. In 2008, he appeared on “Firehouse” with GZA, reintroducing the world to his signature sound. He dropped his debut album that same year, Iron Works. Four years later, he dropped his follow-up album, Grief Pedigree that featured an appearance by Roc Marciano.
Ka's final album, The Thief Next to Jesus, which followed his two 2022 LPs Languish Arts and Woeful Studies, dropped in August.
Ka wasn’t just a rapper — he was also a popular producer and firefighter who was a first responder on Sept. 11, 2001 during the attacks on the World Trade Center.
Ka is survived by his wife, film producer Mimi Valdes, his mother, and sister.
RIP.