Augustine Kofi Owusu Dua Anto, known to many as KODA, was a highly talented Ghanaian gospel music minister who left a remarkable legacy in the world of contemporary Gospel music.
KODA made a significant impact on the Gospel music scene with his unique style of delivering powerful and timeless tunes for various well-known Gospel acts in Ghana and beyond.
Artists such as Pastor Joe Beecham, the late Danny Nettey, Daughters of Glorious Jesus, Nii Okai, Pastor Helen Yawson, Joyful Way Incorporated, and Nathaniel Bassey have all benefited from his musical expertise.
Nicknamed “PREACHER’s PREACHER,” KODA’s music was characterized by strong messages that addressed topics that many preachers had shied away from. Despite working behind the scenes for many years, he also released his own songs, garnering praise for his powerful messages and world-class tunes.
His passion for music began at a young age, as he honed his skills playing the guitar in a music class his mother enrolled him in at just 10 years old. During his time at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), he served as the mass choir director and participated in various musical groups.
KODA’s unconventional style blended Western influences with African sounds, creating music that resonated deeply with listeners. His production work on albums such as ‘Awurade Ei’ for KNUST’s “God’s Instruments” and Nii Okai’s ‘Moko Be’ and ‘Gye W’ayeyi’ albums received widespread acclaim in Ghana.
Despite his success and experience, KODA continued to produce music that transcended cultural boundaries, offering a sound that appealed to both Western and African audiences.
His work was deeply appreciated by world-renowned musicians and Africans in the diaspora, as he skillfully incorporated indigenous Ghanaian and African rhythms into impressive Western music.
With a message rooted in Christianity, KODA was a staunch believer in the true teachings of the Holy Bible and consistently shared his faith through his music.
Throughout his career, KODA released numerous songs that blessed audiences in Ghana and beyond, earning him notable awards such as “Record of the Year” at the 2015 Ghana Music Awards and “Producer of the Year” at the Africa Gospel Music Awards in 2014.
His latest project, the album ‘OXYGEN,’ released in 2016, featured soul-inspiring tracks like “Adooso” and ‘Yaa Pae,’ showcasing his musical prowess and ability to connect with listeners on a deeper level.
In addition to his music career, KODA also shared his knowledge as a music tutor, releasing instructional DVDs on bass and lead guitar, as well as live DVDs of his major concerts.
Tragically, KODA’s life was cut short, leaving behind a wife, “Ewurama Dua Anto,” who is also a talented singer, and their two sons and a baby girl.
KODA’s impact on the Gospel music industry and his ability to bridge cultural divides through his music will always be remembered and cherished by fans around the world.
