American rapper and firefighter Kasseem Ryan, known as Ka, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 52 on October 12, 2024, as confirmed by his family via Instagram. A significant figure in the underground rap scene, Ka was also a captain in the New York City Fire Department and a first responder during the September 11 attacks in 2001.
Ka's musical journey began in the early 1990s with the rap group Natural Elements, and he later formed a duo called Nightbreed with the late rapper Kev. He launched a successful solo career in 2008, releasing a total of eleven albums, all produced independently through his label, Iron Works.
His final album, 'The Thief Next To Jesus,' was released in August 2024, marking the end of a prolific career characterized by his intimate voice and poignant lyrics. Ka was known for his deep connection with fans, often organizing his own album release parties where he engaged in personal conversations with attendees.
Tributes from the music community have poured in, with notable figures like The Alchemist and Westside Gunn expressing their admiration for Ka's authenticity and artistry. His unique ability to blend his roles as a firefighter and an artist has left an indelible mark on both the music industry and the New York community.
