Renowned Brooklyn rapper, producer, and firefighter Ka passed away unexpectedly on Saturday (Oct. 12) at the age of 52, as confirmed by a post on his Instagram account.

“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,” the statement read. “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.”

It added, “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.” According to the post, 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,” it concluded.

The independent musician first gained recognition as a member of the group Natural Elements in the mid-90s before establishing his solo career, where his thoughtful lyricism and minimalist production earned him critical acclaim. His collaborations with Roc Marciano and GZA showcased his impact in the hip-hop world, and he was praised by artists such as Erykah Badu and Yasiin Bey for his unique style. Ka’s music spanned decades, from his debut with Natural Elements in 1994 to his final solo project, The Thief Next to Jesus, released in August 2024. His work left a lasting impression on the underground hip-hop scene, combining raw storytelling with poetic depth.