Ka, underground rapper and New York firefighter, dies at 52

Kaseem Ryan, known in the underground hip-hop scene as Brooklyn rapper Ka, has passed away at the age of 52. Alongside his music career, Ka was a 20-year veteran of the New York Fire Department, serving his community with dedication and bravery. His death was announced on his official Instagram page, which expressed heartbreak at his sudden passing in New York City on October 12, 2024. Ka was a highly respected figure both as a musician and a first responder, rising to the rank of FDNY captain and responding during the 9/11 attacks. He released 11 self-produced solo albums, known for their intimate, lyrical depth, including his most recent work, The Thief Next to Jesus, released in August.

Ka’s early music career began with the underground hip-hop group Natural Elements before moving on to solo work and collaborations, such as appearing on Wu-Tang Clan member GZA’s album in 2008. His album Grief Pedigree in 2012, with a guest appearance from Roc Marciano, solidified his place in the underground rap scene. Beyond music, Ka was a beloved figure in his community, balancing his life as a firefighter and artist. He is survived by his wife, mother, and sister, and his family has requested privacy during this difficult time.

Music by Yevhen Onoychenko from Pixabay