Underground rapper Ka, who worked as a firefighter in New York alongside his music career, has died aged 52.
Ka, whose real name was Kaseem Ryan, spent two decades in the fire department and was a first responder for the September 11 terror attacks while also releasing music.
A statement on his official Instagram said he died ‘unexpectedly’ on October 12 in New York City.
It said: ‘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.
‘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.’
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.’
@ras_works added: ‘I’m froze right now 😢. RIP KA. The best to ever do it.’z
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.
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.
He told Complex in 2013: ‘It’s funny, they didn’t know I rapped for a long time. But then Grief Pedigree put the kibosh on that.
‘One of the dudes was driving home from my job and he had satellite radio and Cold Facts came on.
‘And he said “Hold on… that sounds like Ka? And his name is Ka?” He put two and two together, he came to work the next day and started telling everybody, and then he went on YouTube and pulled up the videos.
‘But until then, it was very quiet. But it’s funny because now, I didn’t tell them I put out a new album. I let things just die down, they thought it was just a one time shot.’