Great figures never truly disappear, and Yaw Sarpong’s impact will be felt for years to come. His journey from humble beginnings to becoming a celebrated musician is a testament to his talent, determination, and strong faith.
Yaw Sarpong was born on February 4, 1963, in Accra to an affluent family. His father, Hon. Ernest Moses Opoku, was a Member of Parliament for the Atwima Nwabiagya District under the Convention People’s Party (CPP). However, after the 1966 coup that led to the overthrow of Nkrumah’s administration, Hon. Opoku was imprisoned and later passed away. This tragic turn of events forced Yaw Sarpong and his family to move to Tonto Kokoben, where he spent his early years.
His passion for music was evident from a young age, leading him to join a Methodist singing group in Asuofua, Ashanti Region. In 1971, he was discovered by a doctor who was forming a music group. This group performed at churches and events, and during one of these performances in Asuase, Kumasi, a pastor noticed his talent and offered to mentor him, a proposal Yaw Sarpong gladly accepted.
During a church event, he impressed the renowned Professor Kofi Abraham, who offered him support. His first composition, “Ma te nka se Ohene bi de Yesu,” performed by Professor Abraham, marked the beginning of a long and successful songwriting career, leading to over 26 albums.
Yaw Sarpong later joined Kristo Asafo, where he helped teach music in Accra New Town. He then became part of the Ahensan band, working alongside Wofa Asumani. After his time with Ahensan, he moved to Accra and spent three years as a taxi driver before relocating to Liberia in 1986. While in Liberia, he formed the Asomafo group, which consisted of Ghanaian, Sierra Leonean, and Liberian musicians. His debut album, “Adesrede,” had been released in 1981 before his move.
Yaw Sarpong’s contributions to music have been widely recognized. He was honored with an honorary doctorate in Sacred Music from the Ecclesiastical Bishop Leaders Conference of Africa (EBLCA), affiliated with Kayiwa International University in Uganda, on September 23, 2017. On October 5, 2019, he received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Ghana Music Awards in London. His commitment to social causes is evident in projects like “The Prison Project” in 2017, which aimed to use music as a tool for positive change.
Although he has faced health challenges and speculation about his well-being, his passion remains undiminished. His songs, rich in emotion and meaning, continue to inspire listeners. Tracks such as “Tenabea Foforo,” “Oko Yi,” “Hwan Na Adwendwene Da No So,” “Wo Haw Ne Sen,” and “Joseph” continue to touch lives and carry messages of hope.
Yaw Sarpong’s legacy goes beyond his music; he stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration. His remarkable performances and uplifting lyrics will forever leave an imprint on the hearts of those who cherish his work, ensuring his influence lasts for generations.