RIP DJ Katapila, our friend Ishmael Abbey

Ishmael Abbey (aka DJ Katapila) passed away unexpectedly on 21 January 2024 from a brief illness, leaving behind a loving family including four children. He was loved by many all over the world, especially in his hometown Accra, Ghana. Katapila's lifelong tireless work DJing and emceeing parties and funerals, along with his original music, made him a legend. (And DJ Katapila's notoriety reaches far beyond his name. Look no further than the 11k+ Tik Toks using his song Zoomlion.)

We are raising funds for Ishmael's funeral, which in Ghana is a major event. Having spent his life making funerals the energetic and cathartic dance parties they can be, it's only fitting that he receive a proper outgoing journey from this world.

Myself, along with some of his friends from around the world, are launching this fundraiser to also generate support for his surviving family in the immediate aftermath of his untimely passing. Financial difficulties in Ghana have increased lately with stark cost of living increases and inflation along with the effects of climate change causing repeated flooding of Ishmael's home.

After meeting Ishmael in 2016 because of my work with Awesome Tapes From Africa, Ishmael became a great and supportive friend. Anyone who met him in his travels knows his warmth and friendly way. He was extremely kind to everyone I saw him encounter and he managed to get a lot laughs out of people. His relentless approach to music-making found him producing DIY music in his home studio and launching a radio station more recently as well. He played some of the coolest clubs and festivals on earth but loved to be at home around his kids, always making time to participate in activities and hobbies with them.