BROOKLYN-BORN rapper Ka has died at age 52.
Ka, who was born Kaseem Ryan, died unexpectedly on Saturday, his family said.
Rapper Ka performing during the 2014 Pitchfork Music Festival in July 2014Getty Images – Getty
Ka performing during the 2014 Pitchfork Music FestivalGetty Images – Getty
“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,” a statement shared on Ka’s Instagram 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.”
A cause of death was not immediately disclosed.
Ka’s death comes on the heels of his latest solo album, The Thief Next to Jesus, which was released in September.
The Brownville native emerged on the rap scene in 1994 as a member of the underground group Natural Elements.
In 2008, Ka embarked on a solo career, delivering a hard-hitting, raw verse on GZA’s Firehouse song featured on his album Pro Tools.
That same year, Ka released his first debut album, Iron Works.
His two albums, The Nights Gambit and The Thief Next to Jesus were ranked among the best albums in 2013 and 2024 by Vulture.
Ka spoke about his double life as a firefighter captain and a lyrical underground MC in a 2013 interview.
“I have a full-time job, and I work all the time. I try to keep that kinda low,” Ka told Complex at the time.
“I just have a job. It ain’t my calling or nothing. It’s just my job. But I love my job because it gives me the freedom to do the art.
“I feel like if I didn’t have a job, that’s when I would have to compromise myself a little bit more.”
‘ILLEST TO EVER DO IT’
The New Yorker dubbed Ka “the last underground rapper” in 2021.
Fans mourned Ka’s death on social media, paying tribute to the “illest to ever do it.”
“My absolute favorite artist has passed away. Rest in peace, King,” one fan wrote with a heartbreak emoji.
A second commented, “Damn rip, legendary pen.”
“Speechless, feels unreal. His music legacy is immortal,” another said.
Ka is survived by his wife, mother, and sister.
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