French Rapper Werenoi Dies at 31, Hours Before Scheduled Show

French rap star Werenoi, whose real name was Jeremy Bana Owana, has tragically passed away at the age of 31 after suffering a cardiac arrest, just hours before he was due to perform in Lyon.

According to reports from French media outlet Pure Charts, the artist went into cardio-respiratory arrest on Friday night. He was rushed to Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital in Paris and admitted to intensive care. Sadly, he died in the early hours of Saturday, May 17.

Werenoi was scheduled to perform at an exclusive showcase at Azar Club in Lyon later that night.

No official statement has been made by his family or management, but the news of his sudden death has sparked an outpouring of grief across France’s music industry and among his millions of fans.

Spotify France confirmed the news on social media, posting a tribute that read (translated from French):

“Werenoi left us last night. The release of the new music video has been postponed. All our thoughts to Werenoi’s loved ones.”

In just five years, Werenoi had risen to the top of the French rap scene. He was known for his distinct style and hit songs like Scarface, Solitaire, Laboratoire, and Chemin d’or.

In 2023, he released Carré, the best-selling album in France that year. His next album, Pyramide, also gained massive success in 2024. By 2025, Werenoi had built a loyal fanbase of over 6.7 million Spotify listeners.

He won Album of the Year at the Flammes ceremony, though he did not attend in person due to a reported serious injury. In a video message, he appeared with a cast on his arm, telling fans he was recovering.

Producer Babs posted a heartfelt message: “Rest in peace my brother, I love you!!!”
Rap duo Djadja & Dinaz also expressed their sadness, stating: “The release of the new music video has been postponed. All our thoughts to Werenoi’s loved ones.”
Radio host Fred Musa added: “My condolences to his loved ones.”

Werenoi’s passing leaves a huge void in the French rap scene. He was more than an artist — he was a voice for his generation.