Ka, the well-known rapper from Brooklyn whose real name was Kaseem Ryan, passed away suddenly last Saturday in New York at 52.
The announcement shared that Ka dedicated his life to his hometown of Brownsville, Brooklyn, and served for two decades as a firefighter in New York City. Rising to captain, he was also a first responder during the tragic events on September 11, 2001. He left behind an impressive legacy with eleven self-released albums.
Starting with Natural Elements back in 1994 and ending with The Thief Next to Jesus this past August, Ka always chose his words carefully. He loved connecting with fans face-to-face during DIY album release parties. He valued independence fiercely—producing his music and handling orders himself—cherishing every moment of his second chance in music.
When Ka first heard rap on the radio at six years old, it felt like magic to him. “I knew as a child this was for me—I was chosen for it. It was my music,” he once shared with Impose. Growing up surrounded by hip-hop’s birth in Brownsville didn’t make him rush; instead, he learned to focus on crafting verses thoughtfully thanks to advice from a friend.
His journey took off with Natural Elements alongside Mr. VooDoo and others when they snagged a Def Jam deal through Dante Ross’s guidance but fizzled after just four songs recorded together. Feeling out of place led him to step away from the group eventually joining forces briefly with Kev under Nightbreed before slowly fading into obscurity afterward .
