Brooklyn rapper and 9/11 first responder Ka unexpectedly dead at 52

Brooklyn-born rapper and producer, Ka — who was also a 9/11 first responder — unexpectedly died over the weekend.He was 52.Kaseem Ryan, known by fans as “Ka,” passed away on Saturday in his hometown of New York City, his grieving family announced on social media.

“We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Kaseem Ryan (1972-2024), the rapper and producer known as Ka,” the post reads.“Born and raised in Brownsville, Brooklyn, Ka lived a life of service — to his city, to his community, and to his music.”The rapper’s cause of death has not been released.Throughout his career, the Big Apple native self-released 11 independent albums, including August’s “The Thief Next To Jesus.”He was also a 20-year veteran of the New York City Fire Department and “put his life on the line to protect his fellow citizens,” according to the post.

He rose through the ranks at the FDNY, eventually becoming captain and later served as a first responder on September 11, 2001, during the attacks on the World Trade Center, his family said.“He leaves an extraordinary legacy as a recording artist,” the social media tribute added, noting his anthology of albums he made a point to self-produce and release independently.

Ka got his start in the early 90s as a member of the group Natural Elements before releasing his first solo album “Iron Works” in 2008.The album caught the attention of Wu-Tang Clan member GZA, who then invited Ka to appear on his 2008 album “Pro Tools.” The rapper was beloved for his lyricism, according to music outlet Pitchfork, and would even host DIY events to celebrate his album releases and talk with fans.

Ka took such pride in being an independent artist that he would even ship orders of his merchandise himself, according to the outlet.Ka’s family asked for privacy while they “grieve this incalculable loss,” they wrote in the post.Heartbroken fans flooded the comment section of the tribute, which had garnered nearly 3...