Ka, a revered Brooklyn MC who was also a 20-year veteran of the New York City Fire Department, has died unexpectedly at the age of 52.
An announcement was shared to his Instagram page on Monday (October 14).
“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,” it read. “Born and raised in Brownsville, Brooklyn, Ka lived a life of service-to his city, to his community, and to his music. As a 20-year veteran of the New York City Fire Department, he put his life on the line to protect his fellow citizens.
“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. He leaves an extraordinary legacy as a recording artist, including eleven remarkable self-released solo albums. 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 married to music executive Mimi Valdés, who also posted a heartfelt tribute.
“My king, my hero, my best friend. You will always be my everything because love like ours lasts forever. Rest my beautiful husband, see you on the other side,” she wrote.
A cause of death has not been revealed.
Earlier this month, Ka released his new album The Thief Next To Jesus, and had a huge turnout of fans who lined up down the street in the rain to get a chance to meet him.
HipHopDX sends our condolences to Ka’s friends and family.
Rest well, King.
Rest well, King.
Man was a legend. I first heard him on Gza pro tools – firehouse. Track had me hooked like a fiend. R.I.P.
Same here Otis, congrats on fatherhood
RIP to Ka, such a talented MC. If you aren’t up on his music, start with the “Days with Dr. Yen Lo” album.
Damn, man I was just listening to Ka and Roc Marci a few days ago. R.I.P
R.I.P. Ka. He was one of favorites in the 2010’s. Dr. Yen Lo is his best work.
Love you Bro
“Descendants of Cain”
Love you Bro
“Descendants of Cain”
Love you Bro
“Descendants of Cain”
Damn! that’s a big loss. KA’s sound was getting more refined with every release. Bro is gone too soon. RIP
Rip to the man. Peace and love on his family.
We were blessed to see him evolve from Natural Elements and Nightbreed to him finding a second life as a full fledged artist—underrated producer, video director, and independent/self distributed artist. Audio and visually, he truly gave one of the most beautiful and vivid testaments of New York rap.
I‘m teared up, R.I.P.
The thief next to Jesus was a dope, enlightening album. As all his albums are. May he rest in peace and condolences to all his close ones.
The Man’s whole catalog is a blessing, Days With Yen Lo gotta be my favorite. Condolences to his loved ones, Peace.
He had his own track on a GZA album. Enough said. Rip