Kaseem Ryan, also known as “Ka,” passed away at the age of 52. His family announced his death on Monday, October 14, 2024, through an Instagram post, where they highlighted his legacy as a recording artist with eleven self-released solo albums. Ka is survived by his wife, mother, and sister, and his family has requested privacy during this difficult time. The New York native, known for his work as a rapper and a 9/11 first responder, died on Saturday, October 12, 2024, in his home state.
Here are some important facts about Kaseem Ryan:
1. Birthdate and Birthplace:
Kaseem Ryan was born on August 11, 1972, in Brownsville, New York.
2. 9/11 First Responder:
Ka dedicated 20 years of his life to the New York City Fire Department, ultimately becoming a captain. He bravely responded to the attacks on the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001, showcasing his commitment to serving his city and community.
3. Rise to Fame:
In the 1990s, Kaseem Ryan gained recognition as part of Natural Elements and later formed the group Nightbreed. He embarked on a solo career in 2008 with his debut album “Iron Works” and continued to release albums like “The Night’s Gambit,” “Descendants of Cain,” and his latest release in 2024, “The Thief Next to Jesus.”
4. Balancing Music and Firefighting:
Despite his passion for music, Kaseem kept his firefighting career separate from his musical pursuits. In a 2017 interview with The New York Times, he emphasized the importance of maintaining this distinction, stating, “I try to keep my job and music separate.” Ka aimed to excel as a firefighter and as a musician without letting the two roles overlap.
5. Cause of Death:
While Kaseem Ryan’s passing has been confirmed, his family did not disclose the exact cause of death, describing it as “unexpected.” This news has left fans and the music community in mourning for the loss of a talented artist and dedicated first responder.
Kaseem ‘Ka’ Ryan’s contributions to both the music industry and the firefighting community have left a lasting impact. His commitment to service and his artistic talent will be remembered by those who knew him and by his fans around the world.