Celebrated New York City rapper and former firefighter Ka, also known as Kaseem Ryan, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 52. Known for his contributions to firefighting, his neighborhood of Brownsville, and hip-hop, Ka was praised for a life of service to his city, community, and music. A cause of death was not immediately available, but he had served with the FDNY for 20 years before gaining recognition as an artist late in life.
Ka’s artistry gained notoriety for his humble, subtle, and stinging rhymes, with critics and fellow emcees praising him as one of hip-hop’s greatest writers. His 2016 album, “Honor Killed the Samurai,” included the track “$,” which was celebrated for its powerful and thought-provoking lyrics. Described as New York Rap’s Greatest Living Treasure, Ka’s music contained elements of pain, grief, and wisdom in every bar. He was known as the master of quiet rage, leaving behind a legacy as a recording artist with 11 albums to his name.
Ka’s story was unique in that he achieved success in music later in life after a long career as a firefighter. Initially giving up on his dreams of being a rapper, Ka returned to recording in the 2000s and released his first album, “Iron Works,” in 2008. Inspired by a desire to prove to his mother that he hadn’t wasted his youth, Ka’s reputation as a poetic emcee caught the attention of fellow Brooklyn native GZA of Wu-Tang Clan, leading to collaborations and solo projects that solidified his status as a legend in the genre.
Survived by his wife, mother, and sister, Ka’s passing marks the end of a remarkable career in both firefighting and music. His influence on hip-hop as a talented lyricist and artist will be remembered by fans, critics, and fellow artists alike. Ka’s legacy as a quiet yet powerful force in the industry is evident through his catalog of work and the impact he had on those who knew him and his music. Though the details of his passing remain unknown, his impact on both the firefighting community and the hip-hop world will endure for years to come.