Funeral rites for veteran Ghanaian gospel musician Yaw Sarpong will take place from May 8 to May 10, with final ceremonies scheduled at Asuofua Town Park in the Ashanti Region.
A wake‑keeping will be held on Thursday, May 8, followed by the burial service and final funeral rites at the same venue on May 9, where thousands of mourners are expected to gather to honour the celebrated gospel icon. A thanksgiving service will conclude the funeral activities on May 10, according to the family.
Yaw Sarpong, founder and leader of the renowned Asomafo Band, died in January 2026 at the age of 63, after a period of illness, bringing to an end a gospel music career that spanned nearly five decades.
Widely regarded as one of the pioneers of contemporary Ghanaian gospel music, Sarpong was celebrated for blending traditional Akan rhythms with Christian worship, producing songs that became staples in churches and Christian gatherings across the country. His influence helped shape the direction of indigenous gospel music in Ghana.
Born and raised in Accra, Sarpong rose to prominence as a songwriter, composer and band leader, guiding Asomafo into one of the most respected gospel ensembles in West Africa. Over the years, he released numerous albums and mentored younger musicians, earning him lifetime achievement honours both locally and internationally.
The family has invited the public, musicians and sympathisers to participate in the funeral ceremonies as they celebrate the life, ministry and legacy of a man whose music continues to inspire generations of worshippers in Ghana and beyond.
