Brooklyn Rapper Ka Dies at 52

Brooklyn rapper Ka has died at 52 years old.

Ka’s family released a statement to his Instagram on Monday (Oct. 14) revealing that the beloved rhymer — born Kaseem Ryan — died unexpectedly on Saturday.

“Born and raised in Brownsville, Brooklyn, Ka lived a life of service—to his city, to his community, and to his music,” the statement reads. “As a 20-year veteran of the New York City Fire Department, he put his life on the line to protect his fellow citizens.

The post touches on Ka’s life of service as a captain of the New York City Fire Department for two decades: “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 the privacy of Ka’s family and loved ones be respected as they grieve this incalculable loss.”

The independent rapper delivered his final album, The Thief Next to Jesus, in August. Ryan got his start as a founding member of the group Natural Elements in 1993 before forming the Nightbreed duo with the late rapper Kev prior to his solo career taking off. He’s best known for conceptual solo projects Grief Pedigree and The Night’s Gambit.

Following a hiatus from rap, he made a guest appearance on GZA’s Pro Tools album while going on to release his Iron Works debut in 2008. Outside of his nine solo LPs, Ka also got busy a producer. He’s notched collaborations over the years with his unofficial Metal Clergy partner Roc Marciano, Navy Blue and more.

The Brooklyn native formed the Hermit and the Recluse duo with producer Animoss, in addition to teaming up with producer Preservation under the alias Dr. Yen Lo.

Plenty of fans and fellow rap peers paid tribute to Ka in his comment section.

“KA is one of the greatest lyricists ever…. And without rhyming, being a fireman is one of the greatest jobs we as people respect. Im heartbroken. Condolences to the family,” Mickey Factz wrote.

Rome Streetz added: “Rest in paradise to a Legend.”

Rest in peace to the highbrow gutter connoisseur. Ka was 52.