The French music world woke up to heartbreaking news this weekend as rising rap star Werenoi tragically passed away at just 31 years old.
Known offstage as Jeremy Bana Owana, the talented rapper reportedly suffered a sudden cardiac arrest mere hours before he was scheduled to perform live.
Sudden Collapse and Hospitalization in Paris
On Friday night, Werenoi was rushed to Paris’ Pitie-Salpetriere Hospital after going into cardio-respiratory arrest.
Despite the medical team’s efforts, he was admitted to intensive care but sadly passed away early Saturday morning.
The news stunned fans and fellow artists alike, coming just hours before his planned showcase at Lyon’s Azar Club.
Tributes Pour In From the Music Community
Though no official statement has come from his family or management yet, tributes quickly flooded social media as the French music scene mourned the loss.
Spotify France honored him with a moving message, translated as: “Werenoi left us last night.
In just five years, the Montreuil rapper left a lasting mark on rap and French music as a whole. Our condolences to his family and loved ones.”
Music producer Babs expressed his grief simply and deeply, writing: “Rest in peace my brother I love you!!!” Meanwhile, French hip-hop duo Djadja & Dinaz announced the postponement of a new music video out of respect, and radio host Fred Musa offered his condolences to Werenoi’s family.
A Rising Star With Award-Winning Success
Werenoi had become a familiar name on the French rap circuit, known for his unique sound and compelling lyrics.
Last year, he headlined at the 40th Francofolies de La Rochelle music festival—a major milestone in his career.
He also won the Album of the Year award at the 2024 Flammes ceremony, a remarkable achievement given that he appeared only via video message due to a serious arm injury.
Chart-Topping Albums and Millions of Fans
His success only grew with time. Werenoi’s 2023 album Carre was the best-selling record in France, and he followed it up with another hit album, Pyramide, in 2024.
His fanbase was enormous, with over 6.7 million monthly listeners on Spotify.
Hit songs like Scarface, Solitaire, Laboratoire, and Chemin d’or showcased his talent and secured his place in French hip-hop.
Recent Triumph With Diamond Noir
Just weeks before his untimely death, Werenoi’s latest album Diamond Noir topped the charts.
On April 18, French music organization SNEP celebrated its success on Instagram, sharing that the album had sold 53,821 equivalent units that week.
Fans flocked to comment on the post, sharing their grief and sending heartfelt messages like “Repose en paix” — rest in peace.
Remembering Werenoi’s Impact
Werenoi’s sudden passing has left a huge void in the music community and among his fans.
As the tributes keep coming in, it’s clear he was more than just a rapper — he was a powerful voice in French music and culture.
His legacy lives on in the tracks he left behind and the lives he touched in a career that burned bright but far too briefly.