Underground rapper and New York firefighter Ka dies ‘unexpectedly’ aged 52
Underground rapper Ka, born Kaseem Ryan, has passed away at the age of 52. Alongside his music career, Ka served as a dedicated firefighter in New York for over 20 years, rising to the rank of FDNY captain. He was also a first responder during the September 11, 2001, attacks on the World Trade Center.
A statement on his official Instagram announced his sudden death on October 12 in New York City. It read, “Born and raised in Brownsville, Brooklyn, Ka lived a life of service—to his city, his community, and his music.”
Throughout his career, Ka balanced his passion for hip-hop with his commitment to public service, releasing critically acclaimed albums while protecting the citizens of New York. His contributions as both an artist and a firefighter left a lasting impact on those who knew him.
The statement concluded, “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 at 52.”
Ka died ‘unexpectedly’ in New York City, a statement on his Instagram said (Picture: Twitter)
‘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.’
Tributes have been paid on Instagram with @superior27 writing: ‘My absolute favorite artist has passed away. Rest in peace, king.’
@fanikroom said: ‘Speechless, feels unreal. His music legacy is immortal.’
Ka first rose to prominence as a member of the group Natural Elements before leaving and forming duo Nightbreed.
In 2008, he released his debut solo album Iron Works, which caught the attention of Wu-Tang Clan member GZA, who invited him to appear on his 2008 album Pro Tools.
In 2012, Ka released his follow-up album, Grief Pedigree which featured a guest appearance by Roc Marciano.
Ka collaborated on music with Wu-Tang Clan member GZA (Picture: Barry Brecheisen/WireImage)
Throughout his music career, he released eleven solo albums.
Ka previously spoke about juggling his music with being a firefighter and said he did not tell his colleagues he was a rapper.
In a 2013 interview with Complex, Ka reflected on how his colleagues at the fire department eventually discovered his rap career. He explained, “It’s funny, they didn’t know I rapped for a long time. But then Grief Pedigree put an end to that.”
He shared a story about how one of his coworkers accidentally uncovered his musical identity: “One of the dudes was driving home from work, and he had satellite radio on.
Cold Facts came on, and he thought, ‘Hold on… that sounds like Ka? And his name is Ka?’ He put two and two together, came to work the next day, and started telling everyone. Then he went on YouTube and pulled up the videos.”
Ka added that until that point, his rap career had been kept quiet. He humorously noted, “But it’s funny because now, I didn’t tell them I put out a new album. I let things die down—they thought it was just a one-time thing.”
