'I am a Fante' – Late Ron Kenoly asserts in old video

An old video of legendary gospel singer Ron Kenoly has resurfaced online following news of his passing on February 3, 2026.

In the video, shared by broadcaster Kafui Dey on X, the renowned worship leader revealed that after conducting extensive personal research, he believed he was of Ghanaian descent.

According to Kenoly, his great-grandfathers were taken from the shores of Ghana during the transatlantic slave trade, leading him to conclude that he was a Fante.

“It’s likely that, based on my personal discussions and research, I am a Fante,” he said.

Gospel legend, Ron Kenoly dies at 81

The celebrated gospel singer died at the age of 81. News of his death was announced by his long-time music director in a social media post, sparking an outpouring of tributes from across the global Christian music community.

Kenoly, best known for his powerful live worship recordings, was a defining voice in contemporary praise and worship music from the early 1990s.

He released several iconic songs, including “Ancient of Days,” “Jesus Is Alive,” and “We’re Going Up.”

These songs have since become staples in churches worldwide, celebrated for their vibrant arrangements, scripture-based lyrics, and emphasis on joyful, participatory worship.

Watch the video below:

It is very likely I am a Fante - the late Pastor Ron Kenoly in 2023 when he came to Ghana and I interviewed him on #GTVBreakfast#RIPRonKenoly #KafuiDeyInterviews pic.twitter.com/tOTbtxYLO5

— Kafui Dey (@KafuiDey) February 3, 2026

JHM/EB

Meanwhile watch GhanaWeb's exclusive interview with Ghanaian musician/comedian David Oscar Dogbe