Brooklyn rapper Ka has died age 52
Brooklyn-based rapper Ka, born Kaseem Ryan, has died aged 52, according to a statement posted to his social media.
Ka was born and raised in Brownsville, Brooklyn, where he found a love for rap. He worked with Natural Elements for a short period in the 1990s before embarking upon a solo career in the late 2000s. He continued to release as Ka until his death, earning criticial acclaim and collaborating with the likes of Roc Marciano, DJ Preservation, Jai and Navy Blue.
Ka released his debut record, Iron Works, in 2008. The album title would also become the name of his label. He released all of his records in the years that followed through his own label, from concept albums like The Night’s Gambit and Honor Killed the Samurai to his final album, The Thief Next to Jesus.
The Thief Next to Jesus was released in August, just under two months before Ka’s death. The album saw the rapper delving into Biblical themes and was praised by critics in reviews.
A statement posted to Ka’s Instagram states, “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 statement did not give a cause of death.
“Born and raised in Brownsville, Brooklyn,” the post shared, “Ka lived a life of service — to his city, to his community, and to his music.” Beyond his rap career, Ka was a firefighter in New York City for two decades and responded to the September 11th attacks in this role.
“As a 20-year veteran of the New York City Fire Department, he put his life on the line to protect his fellow citizens,” the statement continued, “Ka rose to the rank of FDNY captain and was a first responder on September 11, 2001 during the attacks on the World Trade Center.”
The statement also took the time to honour Ka’s contributions to the world of rap music and production, acknowledging that he leaves behind “an extraordinary legacy as a recording artist, including eleven remarkable self-released solo albums.”
“Ka is survived by his wife, mother and sister,” the post concluded, “We kindly ask that the privacy of Ka’s family and loved ones be respected as they grieve this incalculable loss.”