The distinct, soulful voice that anchored the legendary Yaw Sarpong & Asomafo gospel group for over 40 years has gone quiet. Maame Tiwaa, a matriarch of indigenous African gospel whose harmonies resonated well beyond her native Ghana, passed away on Sunday, December 7.

Her death marks the end of a golden era for traditional highlife gospel, a genre that—much like the timeless hymns of Kenya's own Mary Atieno or the Kassangas—served as the spiritual soundtrack for millions of households across the continent. The news was confirmed by the group's manager, Nana Poku Ashis, following a short illness.

A 40-Year Legacy

Tiwaa was not merely a backing vocalist; she was the counterweight to Yaw Sarpong’s leadership, providing the emotional depth that made the group's music timeless. For four decades, her consistency offered a sense of stability to fans who grew up listening to their records on cassette tapes and radio broadcasts.

According to reports corroborated by Yen Ghana and GhanaWeb, the veteran singer had been battling health challenges recently. While the specific cause of death remains private, the suddenness of her departure has sent shockwaves through the industry.

• The Group: Lead singer for Yaw Sarpong & Asomafo.
• Tenure: Dominated the industry for over 40 years.
• Date of Death: Sunday, December 7, 2025.
• Confirmation: Verified by manager Nana Poku Ashis.

Mourning a Matriarch

The impact of Tiwaa's passing extends beyond the recording studio. In an industry often fixated on the 'new and trendy,' she represented resilience and fidelity to the craft. Her partnership with Yaw Sarpong was viewed by music historians as one of the most enduring collaborations in African gospel history.

Fans have taken to social media to express their grief, sharing clips of her performances that highlight her unique vocal texture—raw, emotive, and deeply spiritual. While details regarding her funeral arrangements remain scarce, the outpouring of tributes suggests a send-off befitting a queen of the airwaves.

As the gospel fraternity processes this loss, the focus shifts to preserving her legacy. Tiwaa proved that indigenous sounds could command global respect without diluting their essence. Her song has ended, but the melody lingers on.