Kaseem Ryan (August 11, 1972 - October 12th, 2024), better known by his stage name Ka, was an American rapper, producer, and firefighter from Brownsville, Brooklyn, New York City, New York. He was a former member of the group Natural Elements. In 1998 he formed the group Nightbreed with his friend Kev. In 2008, he was re-introduced on GZA's album Pro Tools on the song "Firehouse" and in that same year he released his debut album Iron Works. In 2012, he released the follow-up Grief Pedigree on his label Iron Works. The album featured a guest appearance by Roc Marciano and was produced by Ka. Ka had also worked under the names Dr. Yen Lo and Hermit and the Recluse, both as collaborations between him and Preservation for the former and Animoss for the latter. Ka unexpectedly passed away on October 12th, 2024. His family announced his passing a few days later, on October 14th.