He began his musical journey in the 1990s with the underground group Natural Elements before transitioning to a successful solo career.

Ka, born Kaseem Ryan, was a prolific rapper from Brooklyn whose career spanned two decades, during which he also served as an FDNY firefighter.

Over his career, Ka released eleven self-produced solo albums, with his last album, 'The Thief Next to Jesus,' released in August 2024.

His music was characterized by thoughtful lyricism and minimalist production, earning him critical acclaim and respect within the hip-hop community.

His 2012 album 'Grief Pedigree' is regarded as a blueprint for artists exploring deep, metaphorical verses about struggle.

Ka's approach to music was marked by a commitment to artistic integrity, prioritizing depth and lyrical content over commercial success.

Known for his humility, Ka actively engaged with fans on social media and hosted DIY events for album releases, fostering a strong community connection.

Music publication The Fader hailed him as 'New York Rap's Greatest Living Treasure,' recognizing his deep, reflective lyrics that conveyed pain and wisdom.

His unique distribution methods included focusing on digital releases and personal merchandise shipping, which set him apart from traditional music industry practices.

Tributes from fellow artists underscored Ka's influence as a lyricist and his dedication to his craft, even amidst challenges in the music industry.

While the cause of his death remains undisclosed, Ka's contributions to music and his community continue to be honored.

Ka's lyrics often revealed layers of his psyche, emphasizing his worldview and personal experiences through concise, impactful lines.