Independent Brooklyn Rapper and 9/11 First Responder, Ka, Dead at 52

Ka was an independent rapper from Brooklyn and also a New York City firefighter for 20 years. He has died at age 52. His passing was unexpected, according to a post on his social media account. He passed away on Saturday, October 12.

“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,” reads the statement on Ka’s Instagram. “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.”

The statement continued, “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.”

Legendary Brooklyn Rapper and NYC Fire Department Veteran, Ka, Unexpectedly Passes Away

Throughout his career as a rapper, Ka put out 11 independent albums. He was first a member of the group Natural Elements in the 90s, then formed the group Nightbreed. He released his first solo work in 2008, the album Iron Works. In August 2024, he released his latest album, The Thief Next to Jesus.

Ka was an independent artist at heart, keeping that mindset strong in his work. He was well-known in the New York scene for being independent, as well as for his philosophical approach to rap.

He took a break from his music career in 1999 to become a firefighter, becoming a captain in 2009. However, Ka was an artist first and foremost. While he stated to Complex in 2013 that he loved his job with the fire department, ultimately “it gives me the freedom to do the art. I feel like if I didn’t have a job, that’s when I would have to compromise myself a little bit more.”

Featured Image via Instagram/Kaseem Ryan